Expectations soar as Sri Lanka enter familiar territory

Something about major tournaments stokes Sri Lanka's fire. They have now reached their fifth semi-final in six competitions, second only to Pakistan who have a cleansweep since the 2007 World Cup. In between the major events, they are often underwhelming. Before defeating Pakistan in the home ODIs in June, Sri Lanka had failed to collect silverware in six limited-overs series over 10 months.

Yet they have emerged frontrunners once more. The batting that so often seems fragile against quality bowling has grown a steely backbone. The middle order, abounding in youth, has bared its teeth as well. When England muscled past the top three on Monday, they stumbled into an ambush. The youngsters may not yet have acquired the heavy weaponry their seniors deal in, but they have enough switchblades and brass knuckles between them, and the audacity to dare anyone to a fight. Pakistan's wounds from their last scrap at the Premadasa may not yet have healed.

Sri Lanka's bowling has been their strength, but occasionally it has been made to look brittle by opponents who have cracked its unorthodoxy. With three allrounders now among their ranks, Sri Lanka have stockpiled resources capable of stepping in for ailing front-liners. Thisara Perera has had a career-defining 12 months with the ball, but he has been held in reserve during this tournament in that regard. Others like Akila Dananjaya have emerged to add mettle to an attack that has reclaimed some of the fearsomeness it surrendered since the 2011 World Cup.

Sri Lanka also understand they must win the title to appease a fan base that has been spoilt by the team's consistency in major tournaments. Having come so close so many times, nothing but a victory in the final will do for most. But first Sri Lanka must overcome Pakistan, whose zest for the grand stage may be even keener than their own.

"We are still two games away from the title, but we're extremely proud to be a part of a group that has been consistent throughout these tournaments," Sri Lanka's captain Mahela Jayawardene said on the eve of the semi-final. "When you look back, even though we haven't won, for us to be in those situations and have pushed hard is great. Yes, we haven't won any of those [tournaments] and it's a bit of a disappointment, but we have to be in those situations and if we keep getting there we will win."

Sri Lanka arrive at the semi finals as the only team of the remaining four not to have played a match at the Premadasa. They have a poor Twenty20 record in Colombo, having failed to win any of the four matches played here, though each of those results came before the square was re-laid in 2010.

Sri Lanka began their campaign on the fastest track of the tournament in Hambantota, and adjusted quickly to a slightly less bouncy track in Pallekele. As the only team that will play at all three venues, they need to adapt once again in Colombo. However, Sri Lanka's strength in and against spin should assist them at the venue that has produced the driest surfaces of the competition.

Given some of the best players of spin in the world are in Sri Lanka's top six, Pakistan are unlikely to send down 18 overs of slow bowling, as they did against Australia on Wednesday. "They've got some quality spinners, but our guys play spin quite well," Jayawardene said. "We need to look at what kind of wicket we get tomorrow. It looks a fresh wicket, one where the first-round games were played. Depending on how the wicket behaves we need to take a few tactical changes. If we make any plans we have to play accordingly."

Throughout the campaign, Sri Lanka and their captain have worn the desperation of men striving to taste World Cup success. The nation's cricket identity is inextricably linked to a single World Cup, as any builder, beggar, businessman or priest reminiscing about 1996 will attest. Perhaps for the first time in the last decade, Sri Lanka have no weak links; every facet of their game has roared to life in the Super Eights and those flames will only burn hotter in the belly of a heaving Premadasa.

If you can not defeat an enemy you can at least laugh at their failures, Lankans are worst, worse than our archenemy (they respect good performance). you guys have started comment war it will now go on till the end of time, trust me! here you go keyboard warriors.

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 14:02 GMT

SriLanka wins or loses here, their cricket board is soon going to plead to BCCI to arrange one more bilateral series so that they can pay their cricketers and the WC debts. :)

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 13:22 GMT

T20 is luck by chance !

Sinhaya
on October 4, 2012, 13:18 GMT

@Narbavi, already the groupings for 2014 T20 is decided! Sri Lanka's group is tough with England the former champs, power hitting Windies and NZ who beat India in a T20 a few weeks ago. Yeah keep giving excuses for not qualifying for the semi finals!

ProdigyA
on October 4, 2012, 13:18 GMT

Just change the name to India and Pak will lose automatically. LOL

Sinhaya
on October 4, 2012, 13:13 GMT

@Narbavi, already the groupings for 2014 T20 is decided! Sri Lanka's group is tough with England the former champs, power hitting Windies and NZ who beat India in a T20 a few weeks ago. Yeah keep giving excuses for not qualifying for the semi finals!

Sinhaya
on October 4, 2012, 13:12 GMT

@Eat_sleep_play_cricket, have n't you seen Mahela admitting his failure and weaknesses of the team when defeated? He never gives excuses at all!

mathewjohn2176
on October 4, 2012, 13:11 GMT

@ SL fans, go and look at Indian related articles and check how many of your fellow SL fans trash talking indian teams.Its clear that you all show your political related frustration against indian team and Indians in general.So learn to appreciate other teams and don't mix politics and cricket.Even pakistan fans appreciated indian team when indians lost the semifinal spot.So Stop commenting on Indian articles,then Indians will do the Same to you.Give respect and earn respect in return. Good luck to both teams.May better team win the match and trophy.Cricinfo please publish.

CricketPissek
on October 4, 2012, 13:10 GMT

i'm waiting for the day where Indian and Sri Lankan fans won't be at each other's throats. i'll be waiting for a while! Pak always seems to get the better of Sri Lanka when it matters. Even that fool Afridi wakes up and puts in match winning performances when it's against SL! SL has been the more solid and balanced team between the two, and next to Aus in the whole tournament. But Pakistan is Pakistan! Whoever wins this better win the cup, and hope it's Sri Lanka :)

BowledYa
on October 4, 2012, 13:04 GMT

@kunalx. You don't get to 6 straight semi finals by fluke. You have to have a big heart and strong stomach, something that other teams can learn from SL and Pak. Most of the top 8 are similar in strength overall, it comes down to who in mentally stronger to do what it takes to win.

lets_move_forward
on October 4, 2012, 15:11 GMT

If you can not defeat an enemy you can at least laugh at their failures, Lankans are worst, worse than our archenemy (they respect good performance). you guys have started comment war it will now go on till the end of time, trust me! here you go keyboard warriors.

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 14:02 GMT

SriLanka wins or loses here, their cricket board is soon going to plead to BCCI to arrange one more bilateral series so that they can pay their cricketers and the WC debts. :)

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 13:22 GMT

T20 is luck by chance !

Sinhaya
on October 4, 2012, 13:18 GMT

@Narbavi, already the groupings for 2014 T20 is decided! Sri Lanka's group is tough with England the former champs, power hitting Windies and NZ who beat India in a T20 a few weeks ago. Yeah keep giving excuses for not qualifying for the semi finals!

ProdigyA
on October 4, 2012, 13:18 GMT

Just change the name to India and Pak will lose automatically. LOL

Sinhaya
on October 4, 2012, 13:13 GMT

@Narbavi, already the groupings for 2014 T20 is decided! Sri Lanka's group is tough with England the former champs, power hitting Windies and NZ who beat India in a T20 a few weeks ago. Yeah keep giving excuses for not qualifying for the semi finals!

Sinhaya
on October 4, 2012, 13:12 GMT

@Eat_sleep_play_cricket, have n't you seen Mahela admitting his failure and weaknesses of the team when defeated? He never gives excuses at all!

mathewjohn2176
on October 4, 2012, 13:11 GMT

@ SL fans, go and look at Indian related articles and check how many of your fellow SL fans trash talking indian teams.Its clear that you all show your political related frustration against indian team and Indians in general.So learn to appreciate other teams and don't mix politics and cricket.Even pakistan fans appreciated indian team when indians lost the semifinal spot.So Stop commenting on Indian articles,then Indians will do the Same to you.Give respect and earn respect in return. Good luck to both teams.May better team win the match and trophy.Cricinfo please publish.

CricketPissek
on October 4, 2012, 13:10 GMT

i'm waiting for the day where Indian and Sri Lankan fans won't be at each other's throats. i'll be waiting for a while! Pak always seems to get the better of Sri Lanka when it matters. Even that fool Afridi wakes up and puts in match winning performances when it's against SL! SL has been the more solid and balanced team between the two, and next to Aus in the whole tournament. But Pakistan is Pakistan! Whoever wins this better win the cup, and hope it's Sri Lanka :)

BowledYa
on October 4, 2012, 13:04 GMT

@kunalx. You don't get to 6 straight semi finals by fluke. You have to have a big heart and strong stomach, something that other teams can learn from SL and Pak. Most of the top 8 are similar in strength overall, it comes down to who in mentally stronger to do what it takes to win.

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 13:00 GMT

@Eat_sleep_play_cricket: the difference is Mahela, Hafeez, Ross, AB are manly enough to admit they were not good enough on the particular day when they lose whereas Dhoni keeps on offering excuses like pitch, umpires, 3 minute rain etc. I wouldnt say SL has '0 performance' since we've being far more consistent in World tournaments and most of other teams barring Australia and Pakistan

Sinhabahu
on October 4, 2012, 12:58 GMT

@Narbavi, allow me to clear up your confusion. SL and Pak fans will be supporting our own respective teams tonight, but we won't be sad if the other team wins. We support the other team in neutral matches also. And needless to say, we celebrate together whenever the Indian flat track champions get booted out of tournament after tournament. Hope this clears things up.

baranasai
on October 4, 2012, 12:49 GMT

It is a bit unfortunate that Both subcontinent teams are meeting on one side and the Aussues are playing against windies-obviously lankans or pak one of them has to go out.
Thinking back Nasir Jamshed, Shahid Afridi, Ajmal, Umar Akmal.Imran Nazir, Hafeez Raza -what an array of telented players the Pakistan team has got.Iam sure MS will like to Poach them if the are playing for an indian ranji team.
Same way Mahelas colleagues Sanga Dilshan Mendis Angelo and Slings(malinga) are no way les than them.
On a personal level I feel this wil be a one sided match to some extent as one team maty take advantage of a situation either spinners or batsmen.
I feel Dilshan and Mendis will dow well for SL and Our great friend Shahid A and Akmal and ajmal will click for Paks
Bring them in .Lets us play a fair and sensible cricket.
Iam sorry to see my team (india is out of the tournament) out of the contest /better luck for them next time

Glorizee
on October 4, 2012, 12:34 GMT

Friends, I come not to snatch your hearts here. Only superior teams cross the super8 stage. Arrogance without real superiority is something pretty comic and arouses pities. I hope superior Sri Lanka will win and take the trophy but I equally support my Pakistani team to go forward and perform like superior teams do. This is an elegant moment and Sri Lanka are a great and graceful team. These two cricket teams have given the cricket world their best even when flames of civil war were burning down in their backyards. Pak and SL are great sportsmen indeed. I wish both best of luck and so eager to see competitive cricket and healthy cricket -- irrespective of the outcome of the match .. but the winner should lift the trophy too.

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 12:23 GMT

@Rajiv Dutta: Though Pakistan and India won 4/5 of their games, Pak did it win a better NRR.
It wasn't about luck. Losing badly to Aus and winning marginally agnst SA affected India's NRR.
On the other hand Pak def Aus with a good margin.
India had a chance of increasing their NRR chasing a small target quickly agnst Pak. They did not utilize their opportunity, (like Aus)

klds.desilva
on October 4, 2012, 12:19 GMT

I am a Sri Lankan supporter but I have to say, reading some of the comments from our pakistani brothers I've realised how cricket could build friendships. And this is certainly one where two countries are supporting each other. Don't give a damn about who's gonna win tonight I wish both teams good luck!!!

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 12:17 GMT

hahahaha new type of brotherhood SL board depended on BCCIs mercy just come out of defeat that give u by INDIA in finals and recent series. Thats why u ppl r happy the way u shown happiness against is rubbies, u grown up under india and ur against india this is bad thing i would say whereis brotherhood now.

Glorizee
on October 4, 2012, 12:16 GMT

Dear all, like I have two favorite teams, I love Lankans and I love Pakistan too... As a Pakistani, I want Pakistan to win but do not want Sri Lanka to lose :-) ! Sri Lanka and Pakistan I hope today y/our team wins and that is it ..:-D

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 12:02 GMT

Over confidant SL fans now see how u beaten by other countries too ur really scared of Indian team ur players earning income frm here u ppl r thankless ppl u have respected ur players but never SL. No matter Pak is our enemy but i wish they win today. They r open enemy and that good enemy but u r hiding enemy in the camp.

Eat_Sleep_Play_Cricket
on October 4, 2012, 11:52 GMT

@Late-Cut: What do you think of Mahela when lanka could not chase 37. DId he praise SAF team? What about Mahela when lost the warm up game against India: Did he praise Indian bowlers? What about Hafeez when they lost to India - Did he say indians bowled well? What about Bailey when he lost to Pakistan: Did he say Pakistan bowled well? Dude: the arrogance your team carries with ZERO perfromance is amazing! Cheers! - Good luck.

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 11:43 GMT

WANT TO SEE A GOOD GAME OF CRICKET . NO MATTER WHO WINS. BUT IAM SUPPORTING SRI LANKA it would be great to see srilanka winning the tournament ............ from pakistani fan :)

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 11:20 GMT

This will upset SL fans, but there team has been getting the luck of the draw in recent years, In WC 2011- they had to face England and NZ (result of a classic SA choke) in the knockouts - two of the weakest teams in sub-continental conditions. Now they got a free pass in a weak Super 8 group. In the end their mediocrity will show this time just as it did in WC 2011.

Ajitha
on October 4, 2012, 11:14 GMT

Ooh I fedup with indian Srilankan matches. most of the time india fail with other contries but not with SL ,SL is vise versa

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 11:01 GMT

Pakistan will be crushed by Sri lanka. Pakistan is no match to this Sri lankan team. Pakistan reach semis by luck but not Sri Lanka...go Sri Lanka!...

ssshafqat
on October 4, 2012, 10:52 GMT

Apart from Pakistan, my default support team has always been Sri Lanka. It always pains me deeply to think back to that fateful day in April '09 when such calamity befell our teams at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore (really gotta think of renaming that stadium!!). Even through all that SL has been a staunch supporter of Pak cricket and as a Pakistani, I thank you for that. Here's hoping and wishing for a hard fought campaign, a cracker of a match and continued PakSri friendship regardless of the outcome at the Premadasa today. Having said that, Pakistan Zindabad! :)

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 10:51 GMT

Best of luck to both the teams. Whoever wins today must lift the trophy as well.

Hira1
on October 4, 2012, 10:43 GMT

win or loose doesn't matter but I really want Pak to play better cricket especially the batsman has to perform good. Srilanka are very good when they play at their home ground but time for Nazir and Jamshed to blow srilankan bowler...

Narbavi
on October 4, 2012, 10:20 GMT

Srilankan fans and pakistani fans are confused whom to support as they have all along been opposing india, really funny guys!!

Late-Cut
on October 4, 2012, 10:03 GMT

@gayansumeera2; SPOT ON BRO..I TOTALLY AGREE WITH WHAT YOU SAY. Of course, if Dhoni can't appreciate the good performances of the opponent at defeat, what can we expect from their fans? Respect is not granted. It must be earned !!!

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 9:59 GMT

I agree with the other comments. I am a Pkistani, and support pakistan from the heart, but I am also with Sri Lanka coz of their friendly nature and talent!! If anyone is to lift the world cup, it has to be one of these teams!!! The Green Army and Lankan Lions have my Full support.
Fav Batsmen: Sanga and Dravid
Fav Bowler: Saeed Ajmal, Raza Hassan and Hafeez

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 9:58 GMT

Well, Sri Lanka is a very consistent team and I have great regards for South Asian cricketers including SL, BD, and IN teams but when Pakistan plays, all support for Pakistan.

Green flag would fly high tonite and on Sunday!

S_Singh
on October 4, 2012, 9:58 GMT

Srilankans BEGGARS are jumping with joy, its not against India...

Sinhabahu
on October 4, 2012, 9:52 GMT

Wonderful to see the camaraderie between Lankan and Pakistani fans here. Quite a contrast between Indian fans and everyone else.

Pappu_bhai
on October 4, 2012, 9:29 GMT

D_Hitz Well said Brother.You are right.I dont feel the Indian Fans are misbehaving intentionally.They are forced to do so.None of the Indians can sit back and see their team verbally abused for whatever reasons it may be.We all support our country and if SL behave rubbishly we are going to give tit for the tat.Also they may be knowing the Indian fans in numbers and For each one comment they will get 100s of tit for tat replies.So better Leave the Indians Alone and we are all here to enjoy good cricket Not to see our team verbally abused.

A.Shibly
on October 4, 2012, 9:21 GMT

today we can see got cricket,to days competition will be head to head contest if the both teams preform well.Sri Lanka has much more advantage since they are the host country.all the best for the both teams

kunalx
on October 4, 2012, 9:10 GMT

Best of luck pakistan. Just bat well and put a competative score. then this match will be yours! - From an Indian.

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 9:01 GMT

@Cric_lover1234 Thank you brother. Love from Pakistan :-)

D_Hitz
on October 4, 2012, 8:49 GMT

I really cant understand all the negativity against India,may be its cz of the clout BCCI has over ICC or the IPL for which many star players of other countries are skipping their national duties! Anyways,I have always respected all the teams but the way some SL fans are after our team i am really surprised if it is due to their loss in WC final and almost losing everything against out team after that.Whatever it is,I for one enjoy good cricket and like Sangakkara's batting.Hope SL fans tone down a bit,its just a game! and btw if you keep thrashing our team even when our teams have not met at all this time,you cant expect other Indian fans to just sit back.

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 8:47 GMT

Today is a bit confusion because like many Pakistani fans I also have soft-corner and all respect for the Srilankan team. Wish we had semi-final with WI. Today I wish good luck for both teams. All I wish is that who ever wins today, also wins the final :-)

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 8:40 GMT

Today is a bit confusion because like many Pakistani fans I also have soft-corner and all respect for the Srilankan team. Wish we had semi-final with WI. Today I wish good luck for both teams. All I wish is that who ever wins today, also wins the final :-)

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 8:11 GMT

Thrilled to see brothers going to fight against each other. Srilankans have been very supportive through out the tournament. Lets hope it will be an exciting match. May the best team wins today.

Long Live Pak - Sri Friendship

ZAB2121
on October 4, 2012, 8:02 GMT

Why is the Peterson's Eng story lead the T20 SF's headlines? I dont get it!

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 7:23 GMT

its really happy to see wishes to their opponent team from opposite camps... u cant normally see that in India involved matches... supports always fighting and arguing & insulting abt opposite team. but here its very good example for everyone... my best wishes for the Lankans but even if pak win i wish them to lift the cup not allow Australia to dominate again

gayansumeera2
on October 4, 2012, 7:11 GMT

I would like to say all the indian fans that are commenting here saying that sri lankan fans being unethical and harshly commenting against India that it was you,indian fans that made this situation since you don't respect other teams,not even praise other teams' abilities and If you consider Dhoni he is always giving all the reasons of the world for the defeat other than mentioning opposite team's good performance.If you can remember the statement made by Sangakkara in the 2011 world cup final presentation that he gave full credit to the indian batting line saying that 350 would have been not enough against such a strong batting line up.That's the spirit of cricket.But the indian cricketers seem to have lost the fair play and good spirit of the cricket and they only have the arrogance.

Cric_lover1234
on October 4, 2012, 7:05 GMT

Pakistan has got a better bowling attack in premadasa,but sri lanka is not far away. at the same time sri lanka has a better batting line up, but on the day pakistanis can blast all around the ground....so a fair contest, evenly matching team....my heart says it has to be sri lankans in the finals. never the less if pakistanis can jump this hurdle, they will feel like home in the finals...bcoz we havent forget how u guys were supporting lankans in the 1996 WORLD CUP FINALS.....cheers

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 7:03 GMT

For me this is the final :). The two most deserving nations will battle it out. I hope to see a great match. Being a Pakistani, I can't help but support my team, but Sri Lankans you are a great opponent to play against. My most favorite cricketing nation after Pakistan. Best of luck for the match and may the best team win. Here's to hoping that our champions will make both of our nations proud despite the outcome of today's match.

Ali.Mirza
on October 4, 2012, 6:44 GMT

I am a Pakistani but i am not supporting Pakistan 100% because the other team srilankan are our good friends always. they support us when ever we need. so, it does't matter who will win?
But i want to see one from both teams as winner of the World Cup.
Good Luck Sri Lanka!
Good Luck Pakistan!
GO and take the world cup!

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 6:40 GMT

I am a Pakistani Cricket fan and support SL as well. I wish Pakistan wins today but i would not be sad even if Sri Lanka wins.

Sri Lankas good run could end today since pakistan is a very strong team and hard to beat. But whatever happens I am so proud and happy about the young guns of Sri Lanka. They silenced the critics who said SL batting is top heavy, middle order is weak etc.

LastKnight
on October 4, 2012, 6:18 GMT

Support for PK from SL has been massive throughout the tournament.We r thankful to our Lanka brothers.As for the match ,we expect both teams to play to the true spirit and thats that.A gesture of respect and alot of smiles.Recently in PK-SL matches , it has been PK vs SANGAKARA .

As a fan of PK cricket , i m VERY VERY DISAPPOINTED THAT UMAR AKMAL GETS 10-12 BALLS/MATCH.Any other team would bat him at #3 anyday.Bad management.Not allowing him to understand his role.Once the tournament is over , i wish he is promoted to #3/4 in all formats.Do They think he is best suited for slogging.Non Sense.

lets hope that Cup stays in Asia.

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 6:13 GMT

Thanks for all pakistan fans...... i hope a good fight, as a srilankan fan i would say good luck to my team but if we loose don't let aussies to get the cup....

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 5:56 GMT

As a Pakistani Fan ,i m right behind my Team . But i won't mind if Sri Lanka Wins .But i think Pakistan Sud Win this game.All the For Pakistani side,and inshallah we will win

ms2000
on October 4, 2012, 5:56 GMT

As a Sri Lankan we belive we will be the T20 Champs but if not it has to be Pakistan, our brothers!! Good luck to both teams

Zinchemosh
on October 4, 2012, 5:53 GMT

I guess dis is the match of this tournament,even though final is ahead,,Both teams r equally talented n have a good spinning attack,so expecting to c a good battle,,.I wish Sri Lanka all the best.but i have something to say to Indian team also,,u guys never should underestimate ur opponents,even though India is a very good team,,they should give more respect to others also,,anyway all the teams are in super eight group,awesome,,Wish all the teams in Semi's..:)

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 5:52 GMT

The only other team that we want to see doing well apart from Pakistan is Sirilanka. Good game today

Yousufosman4u
on October 4, 2012, 5:40 GMT

Pakistan had many good batsmans and bowlers to win against Sri Lanka. Good Luck to Pakistan.

Agila
on October 4, 2012, 5:39 GMT

Guess PAK is more battle hardened than SL, coming in from a tougher group, and stand a better chance of winning..Go Greens Go...Knock out Dilshan, Mahela and Sanga early the match is 90% won..Attack Malinga rather than seeing him off..you will sure win..you can make it guys! Go for it.

Rock_cricket
on October 4, 2012, 5:25 GMT

My first choice will be PAK . second will be SL

Udendra
on October 4, 2012, 5:21 GMT

Sri Lanka is the only team out of the 4 semi-finalists to not play at Premadasa in this tournament yet.

Htc-Baseball
on October 4, 2012, 5:15 GMT

@Non Indian Fans: Whats with you guys talking about population and India winning all tournaments with such population. Whatever the size of a nation oly 11 players are gonna represent a country.Identifying talents from a limited resource is far easier than finding one among such a populous country.AND LANKA reach semis and finals of tournaments by playing weak oppsitions oly.U can have a look at ur 2011 WC as well

Narbavi
on October 4, 2012, 5:14 GMT

In our group SA finished last, and the same SA thrashed lanka in the group stages, that says it all, hope the ICC does something about this grouping system, never in a world cup have all winners been grouped together!!

D_Hitz
on October 4, 2012, 5:14 GMT

First of all congrats to all four teams for making it to semis.as a cricket lover i respect both pakistan and sri lankan teams and wish both of them good luck.Coming to fans from sri lanka and pakistan who keep thrashing our team India for no apparent reasons, i really cant understand whats wrong with them. We have some of the best cricketers in the world,if we can respect your teams,why cant you???? and mind you ours is not that bad a team if you go by trophys,WC wins are never a fluke.So respect our team if you expect respect from others.And to all my indian bros,lets not get into what others are doing,we know our team and we love them.

cricket_fan_1980
on October 4, 2012, 5:00 GMT

Pretty good article Mr Fernando. Some nice comments here too. Some silly ones, but overall, well thought out points by genuine cricket fans. Someone mentioned Raza Hasan's high quality spin. He is good, but his strength is keeping the ball aimed at the stumps. He generates this fear or doubt in the batsman, that if I miss it, I will be bowled or leg before. He is the perfect opening bowler for that reason. He's working so far because people haven't figured him out. They will. I want to see him develop his variety now. It is clear he can. Saeed Ajmal is the real spin star in Pakistan, and possibly among the top 2 spinners in the world right now, possibly in the top 8 of all time on skill, but not on accolades, yet. Also, Mahela is just an absolute quality batsman. I mean, the class of the man, he becomes one of the best test batsmen of all time, then goes ahead and tops the list of all time T20 batsmen with the most 50+ scores. Along with Gayle. Mahela is class, and Sanga, no words.

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 4:56 GMT

I think it will be good fighting match.
But Pakisthan clearly ahead against Srilanka.

CRW123
on October 4, 2012, 4:53 GMT

SL will win today and India out is good because they thing they are the only T2O owners due to IPL

beatthat
on October 4, 2012, 4:31 GMT

Unfortunately my favourite 2 teams are playing today :( being a Sri lankan, Pakistan is our favourite team aside from Sri lanka. so it does not matter who wins today as long as one of us wins the world cup :) may the best team win!

RaadQ
on October 4, 2012, 4:29 GMT

Pak can win this only by playing smart. They need to remove useless Shoaib Malik (who plays worst than Misbah with bat, and is completely obsolete with he ball) and replace him with Arafat, thus giving Pakistan 3 seam options (Razzaq, Arafat and Umar Gul), all of them who could be handy with the bat on their day, particularly Razzaq. This will allow them to have 12 overs of pace option to utilise, particularly at the start and death, if spin option fails. Afridi should be demoted down the order as he is proving absolutely useless with the bat. Umar Akmal should be promoted over Kamran, to allow him more time at the crease and so that he doesn't have a tailender the other hand he has to work with.

kirikat
on October 4, 2012, 4:16 GMT

I am die hard Sri Lankan fan and hope Sl get through to the finals and lift the trophy. If not whole Sri Lanka will support for Pakistan team in the finals. It would be a mirror image of the 1996WC final. It will be Premadasa instead of Gadafi , Majority of crowd will be Sri Lankans instead of Pakistanis, Flags will be for Pakistanis instead of Sri lankan. But the cup will be stay in Asia.

RuchiWijesinghe
on October 4, 2012, 4:15 GMT

Can be pkistan & can be Sri Lanka. Pakistan has a much more spirit in tactics. But questions can be arised in certain corners in this semi. Surely Pakistan bowlers ahead than Sri Lanka. But dont forget Sri Lanka has good batters for spin & their own bowling can bee a great threat to pakistan. Eventhough pakistan is a powerfull great team, Sri Lanka's all the XI players proved that t20 is a team effort. Their all players got involved to come this far and they are in chamandous form. Opening with Dilshan & Mahela, classy Sanga, then the tripod of allrounders with bat who are on a great nik. . Its Sri Lanka.

mysay
on October 4, 2012, 4:13 GMT

If SL don't win tonight, I want WI to win the final. They have the most ferocious player the T20 has ever seen, and unfortunately nothing to show for it. I thought Johnson at the top was rubbish to begin with, but the way he stepped on the tempo at the latter stages in the game against SA, shows their nothing less than quality players. However if SL win tonight, then my money is on them no matter who the oppenent.

colombo_SL
on October 4, 2012, 4:06 GMT

We want to see a real good game of cricket. The winner of this match should won the world cup ultimately. Cheeers.

colombo_SL
on October 4, 2012, 4:03 GMT

Hope good game of cricket! Wish all the best for both teams. Win or loss is the outcome of the game. It can go either way. No celebrations & no worries. Ultimately both countries are the winners. Very happy to see good comments from both fans. What else do we want! All the best for Pakistan & Sri Lanka.

QingdaoXI
on October 4, 2012, 3:57 GMT

Being Indian i think best team will won the cup but heart says it should be Asian team either Pakistan or Sri Lanka. Gut feeling says that Sri Lanka will be knocked out today because of the lack of match practice against tougher team as they are here with easy route, see the team which beat Sri Lankan fair and square in Group Stages, not win a single match in super Eight, that shows the quality of the Group B. Pakistan have lots of problem, becuase they are playing with Sub-continental team and they need to change some personnel playing against Sri Lanka. My Pakistan team for Todays Match: Hafeez, Kamran, Jamshed, Umar, Shafiq, Razzaq, Malik, Afredi, Tanvir, Gul, Ajmal and Sri Lankan Team: Jaya, Dilli, Sanga, Jeevan, Angelo, Thirmanne, Perera, Malinga, Kulsekara, Eranga, Dhananjaya.

9ST9
on October 4, 2012, 3:57 GMT

kaidranzer - :) mate were you in hibernation during the CB series (last time SL played outside the subcontinent) or is Australia a subcontinental country ? SL made the semis and the finals of the last 2 world T20s which have been played in WI and ENG ( subcontinent?) two of the best performers in those events were Mahela and Dilshan. SL have been very consistent so far but what they have lacked is the ability to deliver the knock out punch. Hopefully they can do it this time.

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 3:57 GMT

I am from Pakistan but I support both teams...May the best team win!!!

If SriLanka go to Final...i'll be happy to cheer for them...

bhrangi
on October 4, 2012, 3:56 GMT

Best wishes for both SriLanka and Pakistan fans.,, Thanks for the love!!!!!!! u guys hav shown to INDIA before a couple of days.,,. Eagerly waiting for the result of the match

alipk52
on October 4, 2012, 3:49 GMT

As a Pakistani, i'll always support my country first, but will not hurt if Sri Lanka go through, they also put on some great performances throughout the tournament so does Pakistan, but only thing we have to see is which Pakistani Team will play today, if Pakistan who played against Australia comes up today, then it'll be a lot more hard work for Sri Lanka, indeed our fielding even Umar Gul at point diving like jhonty Rhode and stopped Australian from taking runs was treat to watch..this is how I want my team in the field, if they do the same for the next two games, I am sure they'll be extremely hard to beat...but again I won't mind if SL wins, they are our brothers, we always plays friendly match, whether it's final of 2009, or Semi-final of 2012!

umair1970
on October 4, 2012, 3:48 GMT

The best of luck to my Sri lankan brothers! It should be a great contest. As a Pakistani I am feverishly hoping for a Pak win but Sri Lanka is one of my favorite teams and a very worthy opponent

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 3:44 GMT

do you ever see a brotherhood like this?? most of the SL and Pak fans are praising and wishing each other...! really lucky to see this...! as Sri Lankans we want to win the title at home,but we wouldn't mind if Pak win today and lift the trophy as they are a good team and supported us in 1996.I wish both teams.both teams deserve to go to the final stage but unfortunately we have to choose one.Lions can make it this time....!!! go Mahela go...!!! whatever happens we Sri Lankans always with our lions.proud to be a sri lankan...<3 but if Pak wins i still be happy with it as whatever happens ALL IS WELL between brothers...!!!

Resultpredictor
on October 4, 2012, 3:39 GMT

SL will definitely win this match and will play the finals against Australia

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 3:16 GMT

All the Best to both teams Sri Lanka and Pakistan. I have a feeling this year's cup belongs to SL.

Right_into_the_block_hole
on October 4, 2012, 2:20 GMT

Well yes usually my second team is always SL after Pak but today on the ground the teams and the fans won't be feeling like this. No body will be friends when playing out there. We have all the right to support our team so GOOOOOO PAKISTAN!!!

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 2:08 GMT

My only intrest in this match is cricinfo fantasy league. I have picked many pak and Lankan players. Sad that my India is not playing today:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 1:55 GMT

Being a Pakistani I am supporting our team, but should we lose (god forbid) then I will support sri lanka. I am also fond of West Indies, but I like the sri lankan team because they are very polite and have the best sportsman spirit. May Pakistan win tomorrow!And then the finals inshallah.

Sinhaya
on October 4, 2012, 1:45 GMT

@kunalx, remember our group was also just as great as India's group. England the former T20 champs, Windies with best power hitters and NZ are a side that beat India a few weeks ago in Chennai in a T20I!

spirit_cric
on October 4, 2012, 1:44 GMT

Really Sri Lankans & Pakistanis are brothers.Remember the support PAK gave SL in WC final 1996.So hope will have a good contest & good luck both teams!

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 1:42 GMT

I have a feeling the final will be between WI and Pak

mxnmxn
on October 4, 2012, 1:32 GMT

@JK_1982 - Win is always bigger and better. Pak's big win over Aus is sweeter than loss against India. Sit back and enjoy competitive cricket. We Indian cricket fans are used to indulge ourselves with IPL.

spirit_cric
on October 4, 2012, 1:20 GMT

Both teams have proved that they are the best in t20 format in last WT20s.And these are the best 2 teams in the competiton & it would have been better they meet in final.Good luck both teams!We will hav a good match 2mro!

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 1:11 GMT

I think Sri Lanka can beat Pakistan as long as our batting doesnt crumble. both side have great bowlers

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 1:05 GMT

srilanka can win easily..................our batting order is nt bad than aussi......... check our last match....mathews came 2 form....
we always play well against spinners............ this time t20 for srilanka

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 0:46 GMT

@ kaidranzer Funny you say that, because recently India have got hammered outside the subcontinent E.G ENGLAND and AUSTRALIA. 4-0 numbers don't lie ay, furthermore in SL the pitches are changing as we know to more faster and bouncier tracks. Please appreciate this epic semi final, and GOOD LUCK to India in their upcoming series against Eng.

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 0:34 GMT

If sri lanka beat pakistan tomorrow they deserved to lift the cup ,Head on head sri lanka batting line up is stronger than the pak but they always fail against them and sangakkara were little too quiet in this tournament but he is a good spin player so i hope/believe he gonna play a extraordinary inning ....and SL not tested against quality side - so let the battle begin .... i like all these 4 teams and SA ,ENG & NZ so who ever win it doesn't really matter

dummy4fb
on October 4, 2012, 0:14 GMT

Best wishes for Pakistan to win the semi today and finals two days from now and lift the cup. Considering their eternal sprouting of talents talents and relatively forced isolation, they deserve to win . Affectionately. From India.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 23:47 GMT

Wow what a refreshing comments from both SL and PAK fans really loved it! may the best team win, absolutely no worries SL is my 2nd best team after Pak.. And i must appreciate Indian brother comments also who r supporting us wholeheartedly! thank you so much and Indian team also played really well no doubt abt that :) Peace-

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 23:43 GMT

As a Pakistani fan, obviously i want Pakistan to win the semi final, but i will be even happy even if SL win it, they are our brothers. The fans supported Pak team during the tournament, if they reach final, I will also support SL

NP_NY
on October 3, 2012, 23:27 GMT

As an Indian fan, I am thrilled to see more comments (575 so far) in the India match report than any other reports. And more than half the comments are from non-Indian fans. Just goes to show, whether the fans love or hate India, there is more interest in the Indian team than any other team. Srilanka had an easy group and Pak made it to the semis by virtue of net run rate. I think Pak deserves to be in the final more than SL because they have played overall smarter and tougher cricket. Either way there will only be one sub-continent team in the final. I like most neutral fans are rooting for the Westt Indies to win the world cup. Only time will tell how this ends.

JK_1982
on October 3, 2012, 23:26 GMT

I m a pakistani but really want to see final between SL and WI. we( Pakistanis )don't deserve to be in the final after losing against India so badly.

hasitha81
on October 3, 2012, 23:17 GMT

Read some of the comments and so glad to see the supporters keen to see any outcome as long as its a good game. I am SL fan and will always be, even if SL loose today would like to see Pakistan taking the cup as they played some good cricket. Especially love their spin attack...Good Luck to both teams and hoping to see a good game tonight.

Majid_gaffar
on October 3, 2012, 23:16 GMT

Watch out Pakistan is going to beat Srilanka and Australia in the final convincingly.The way they played against tough opponents like Australia if they play 50 % of it against Srilanka they will win.Srilanka is not that talented ,they just make slow pitches .But watch out we have the best spinners in world.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 23:02 GMT

go green go world cup will be in pakistan inshaallah n iam very happy that yesterday india was out of the tournament n qualify for airport :)

Dove_Mission
on October 3, 2012, 22:59 GMT

Being a Pakistani I support my team but I like Sri Lankans. I support WI too cuz I think winning a WC title will revive cricket there and could have a WI team of the past glory. And I respect and appreciate Aus cricket. So, I will cheer just for good cricket then. Wish all the teams.

a_shahzad
on October 3, 2012, 22:46 GMT

I am a Pakistani fan but the way both SL and PK fans are supporting each other is really love to watch, therefore I am not concerned about the outcome of this match, I will be happy in either way..so good luck to both SL and PK cricket teams.

kaidranzer
on October 3, 2012, 22:40 GMT

Sri Lanka is a very ordinary team. Just get them out the sub continent and you will see the mediocrity. Dilshan and Jayawardene are the most hyped batsman right now. Just check their record outside the sub continent. Numbers don't lie. Hope pakistan wins this match and loses to West Indies in the final.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 22:37 GMT

I am an Indian. I have huge respect for pakistan cricket. The country has gone through terrible period over the last few years but as far as there cricket is concerned they keep producing gems be it fast bowlers,spinners,talented batsman. Each of your bowler will make Indian bowlers sit out and get in to the indian team easily. This new find Raza hasan is a gem. Watson outplayed Indian spinners but he could not get away with raza hasan and was eventually caught in front (LBW).In pakistan 20-20 cricket is going on from last 30 years, its incredible. The stadium in lahore is jam packed for 20-20's.Other fast bowlers who are warming up on the bench and those who havenot been picked must be around 20-30 pool of talented bowlers. I wonder being from the sub-continent and neighbours we dont produce even a single top quality bowler apart from zaheer.But i am mentioning about CALIBER OF Great Wasim and waqar, Shoaib, Gul, Riaz,Sami and many more. As a true cricket fan i wish Pak wins T20 WC..

LALITHKURUWITA
on October 3, 2012, 22:35 GMT

@ Posted by on (October 03 2012, 13:46 PM GMT)

ALL BLACKS won the WC in their home last year. So SL can become the ALL BLACKS in this WC.

Glorizee
on October 3, 2012, 22:31 GMT

Dear all, like I have two favorite teams, I love Lankans and I love Pakistan too... As a Pakistani, I want Pakistan to win but do not want Sri Lanka to lose :-) !?/

LALITHKURUWITA
on October 3, 2012, 22:31 GMT

Whoever wins this match will win the CUP. I do not think WI or AUS can handle spin attack from SL or PAK. Hope we will see a good match between Mendises/Akila Vs Ajmal/Hasan/Hafeez/Afridi.

Pak may have the advantage in Spin but SL has the advantage in Batting. This could be the best spin war in this tournament.

Syed_imran_abbas
on October 3, 2012, 22:08 GMT

Its really amazing to see great sportsmenship from both country cricket fans. I would like to thanks all the guys for supporting and admiring pakistan cricket team. I hope winner of tommorows match takes the tittle.

Glorizee
on October 3, 2012, 22:08 GMT

How I wish Pak doesn't face SL in knock-out phases. We Pakistanis do have a soft spot for SL! I wish rain, no thunderstorm before I see any of them losing .. Both deserve to win (I know it is illogical) ... I so eagerly wish Pak should win, nop Sri Lanka should win, no .. no It should be green on blue no otherwise. Guys, frankly speaking both teams belong to me, to us. Now what can I say except that today is a great day of cricket in my life because I will enjoy quality cricket and will have no worries as to who wins or not .. God bless you Sri Lankans .. You are lovely people. We love you so madly that we wish you a win and then another in finals too. No matter, who wins but I think Pak should win no SL no Pak no SL no Pak no SL .. no whatever but none deserves to lose, Oh God!

true.fighter
on October 3, 2012, 22:06 GMT

I like Sri Lankan team but surely after pakistani teamI like SriLanka but love Pakistan.i want to see Pakistan carrying trophy but wouldnot mind if the winner is Sri Lanka

Tweety20
on October 3, 2012, 21:57 GMT

Go Lions Go
The new Sri Lanka needs an inspiration from our lions
This victory will be a great source of joy and unity after the war
Our Lankan lions will serve as the unifyng force for all the diverse people living in SL.We r always with u.
All the best to Pak as well..........JAYA SRI...........

Shimbo
on October 3, 2012, 21:55 GMT

Since India is gone,the Indian fans can now enjoy good competitive cricket. Indian fans should thank SA for that. Obviuosly, four best teams are in the final now. Any of those four teams is capable of winning the cup. Love the way pakistan go about their business and should be the best team in the semis if they perform to their talent. However Sri Lanka is a more balanced and hungrier. Unfortunately one of them must make way for the other. Indian must go back to the drawing board now and must learn some lessons from SL and Pakistan if they want to be a competitive team in world cricket.

Glorizee
on October 3, 2012, 21:47 GMT

A Pakistani cricket fanatic loves and sends loving regards to you All Sri Lankan tigers. You rock and we wish good luck to both y/our team! It will be the least tinge of grief if SL beat Pak today. We are proud of S Lankan's love and deep friendship. They are the best word-team today and Pak team is equally equipped. Honestly, I don't know why should I regret the outcome of this match as in either case we Pakistanis shall be happy -- with a strong hope that the winner should come out of the final also victorious ... Let me say we are all wishing Sri Lanka the best today against Pakistan and the other way around indeed. Some of the Indians must Must learn the sportsmanship and ''beauty of love and humanity'' in the same way as other Asians do. If Pakistan wins -- fine , If otherwise, still okay. God bless you all and best luck Sri Lanka and Pakistan.

Syed_imran_abbas
on October 3, 2012, 21:42 GMT

Best of Luck to both teams. I really wanted to see both of them ideally in final. Afridi gota play a big role tommorow. I hope he comes up good. Both teams are good and i am looking forward to a good contest.

kovinbuddi
on October 3, 2012, 21:42 GMT

I wish Good Luck to MahelA, Sangsa and team.Dishan must make a century. Expect super performance in fielding Bowling and Batting. Hope Ajantha, Jeewan, Dananjaya, Lasith, Kulasekara will do their carrier best tomorrow.Also Thisara Perera, Angelo, and Thirimanne.We should somehow bat past 170.We will win I am sure.Good Luck Sri-Lanka!!!.

BravoBravo
on October 3, 2012, 21:39 GMT

@Amila Ruwan Meegahawatta: I enjoyed reading your comment, very articulate and completely agree with it. Good Luck to both teams.

BravoBravo
on October 3, 2012, 21:32 GMT

Reading the comments on this forum makes me emotional. Majority of SL and PAK fans are the nicest and most sporting people. I read comments from IND fans as well, and those comments are very sensible. But I am afraid to say that most of IND comments which are posted during any games are very insulting and venomous. Cricket is a sport, and rivalry is good for the game. But word REVENGE should not be used which is a common word used by the majority of IND fans against each and every team. Best wishes to both teams, please bring WC20 title, and give us a thrilling match worth to remember for years to come.

kassa87
on October 3, 2012, 21:29 GMT

All the best lions go for it. sorry pak i cant support you this time around. but in case we lose, make sure you win the tittle.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 21:24 GMT

India is a big country. If Bangladesh,Pakistan and Sri Lanka combine ,hardly it will be 1/4 th of the country. So U can imagine which country has more fans:)

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 21:17 GMT

lol really good to see postives comments and wishes from both SL and PAK fans...we all just want to watch a Crakcer semi.. Go pak go !!

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 21:15 GMT

As an Indian I can watch this match without any tension:). Let me see the brotherhoodness of these two countries in this match. Will SL fans cheer pak in this match also?:):):)

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 21:10 GMT

cant w8 for this game! hope sri lanka do win this game. Its going to be hard against Pakistan who have had a really good tournament too. Hope the best team wins and whoever wins should win the final because Australia can fall apart if Watson is out. West Indies though can very easily win if Gayle and there batsmen are having their day. Closes T20 tournament yet.

Sri_Lankan_Fan
on October 3, 2012, 21:08 GMT

Sri Lankan here, wishing all the best for both teams ... If Pakistan wins tomorrow , I wanna see pakistan lifting the trophy as well .. Go guys give it all you've got..

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 21:07 GMT

SL...the only team we dont regret losing against, somehow these two countries have this affection and love beyond cricket. My heart goes for Pak, but i wont mind SL victory.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 21:03 GMT

Sri Lanka, we love you and your cricketers. Pakistan wins or Sri Lanka wins, it does't matter. But what matters is, that whoever wins tomorrow should also win the final so the cup will come to either one of us. Good luck Pakistan, good luck Sri Lanka, and some very good top class cricket will be seen tomorrow between the two top class world teams.

cricket_fan_1980
on October 3, 2012, 20:55 GMT

The fans in Sri Lanka have been incredible. Watching them all dressed up at the stadiums is a great sight. And so many have made it from India and Pakistan. Very, very charming group of colourful, boisterous people. The game itself could go any direction because both sides have a lot of class, depth and T20 pedigree. Sri Lanka needs a stronger lower-middle order, whereas Pakistan needs a stronger pace bowling option. Pak needs to restrain Dilshan and get Mahela and King Sanga out early. They also need Imran Nazir to fire in a major way. Nazir can be explosive and has scored some ridiculous 50 or 60 ball hundreds in domestic and league games. Kamran is also looking in good batting nick. It is a shame to see Afridi so subdued, but you can never count him out. No one can forget how he single-handedly won the semi-final AND final of the 2009 T20 world cup. That really does make him the kind of guy who can rise to the big occasion. This win will be MASSIVE for the Pakistani public

Paul_Wright
on October 3, 2012, 20:53 GMT

The SL team looks pretty solid. People talk about the big 3 at the top of the order but you have Jevan Mendis, Matthews, Lahiru T and Tissara Perea to follow and they all can spank the ball. Although J Mendis and Lahiru T are unknown quantities they have done impressively in this tournament. The bowling looks pretty solid as well with Malinga, Mendis, Akila D and Kulasekara. The interesting thing is that SL have somany part time bowlers that can fill in such as Jevan Mendis and Matthews and guys like Thissara Perera and Dilshan have not even had a bowl in this tournamant. I think team wise SL seem to be the better side and can potentially challenge Australia. Pakistan seem a little unpredictable to knock Australia off but would probably be able to take on WI - Crickets a funny game though. One thing is for sure though - If Pak and SL play to there potential tomorrow it is going to be a cracker of a game.

nabfad
on October 3, 2012, 20:50 GMT

Remember the better team has to win
because one of you has be the champ. Good luck

khannn123
on October 3, 2012, 20:45 GMT

im pakistani fan from karachi pakistan ,,i respect eng team and eng plyers ...i think ptersn was nt plying otherwise eng was very good teammm,,,they r perefct for any formt but i think broad cptncy is weak they should giv chnce to plyer like michel lumb,anyways we respect srilankan crickt team sangara is world class in evry formtt...angela mathew and perera also plying like razak and afridi ,,my prayers with both team pak and sri lanka it doesnt matter who ever wons we love u both..and respect srilnka crcickt team lovee uuuuu cheersss

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 20:45 GMT

wat a positive vibes around the match ...i fully respect the spirit of srilankans and pakistani people...they showed brotherhood...wen u are willing to give, the other end also want to give ..
I want always SL or PAK to win the every cup......from Birthplace of Buddha (NEPAL)

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 20:44 GMT

Is India playing in this match?

Aragoth
on October 3, 2012, 20:42 GMT

Go Sri Lanka! ...I wish we met Pakistan in the final. All the best Pakistan...may the best team of these two lift the trophy!

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 20:04 GMT

Enjoyed the comments section way more than the article itself. The contrast between comments made here and under an article on india could not have been bigger. This is what sports must do, bring nations together. So moved by how Pakistani people have shown respect to their opponents.

Cheers for Sri Lankan lions, hope the match will be a close one. We've been an extremely consistent team throught the tournament, having to adjust to different conditions. Never heard Mahle complain though. Funny find Dhoni making excuses after his team having played all there matches including practice matches on the same ground. The truth is, the tournament was tailor made to suit the indians. Its the financial reality in crcicket today. Yet they were rightfully thrown out. What i hate most about them is the arrogance of the team and the fans. So happy that Inidians are out, a sentiment most neutral fans are likely to share with me.

I hope Lankans will win. Good luck to Pakistan as well!

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 19:44 GMT

The first time as a Sri Lankan i am not nervous at all , i know one of my favourites will get through anyway, either Sri Lanka or Pakistan deserve the cup ..Good luck to both the teams ..

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 19:41 GMT

Iam a Indian fan . But I definitely support Pakistan to win this semifinal. Go go go Pakistan

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 19:41 GMT

and as they say, i dont care how you do it, just do it mahela, or retire

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 19:37 GMT

come on pak bring it on, we wont blood you want blood lets bleed and best team will win, no problem,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

Paul_Wright
on October 3, 2012, 19:31 GMT

Good to see so much love between Pak and SL fans - I guess the Pak and SL fans understand that it is only a game and life goes on whoever wins or losses! Completely the oppositte if India was playing!

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 19:31 GMT

Best Of Luck to both teams ... Pakistan Love U... Srilanka Like u :) .. so lankan brothers if u win thn win the final also ok..... afridi plz wake up :@

Solid_Snake
on October 3, 2012, 19:30 GMT

people calling our place in Semis as a result of Fluke.The way Pak reached Semis,it was a very difficult task but we did it.Surviving the Death group and then advancing forward..Hats off Pakistan team.Haters say as much negative things as you want.Fact still remains the same that we are playing into the Semis.
Our main concern is that Lankans are very good players of Spin.Lately we have been relying on spin very much.So i wont have that much expectations from our Spin attack.Our main concern is batting..We are very inconsistent when it comes to batting.I hope we win the toss tomorrow and bat first.When Pak Bat first,their chances of wining goes sky high.
Go Greens get the cup :)
Best of Luck Lankans..Would have supported you in case your opponent was someone else.It is Pak you are playing with so i have to support my own Pak team..Best of Luck both the teams

ammar7may
on October 3, 2012, 19:26 GMT

Pakistan need to keep attacking throughout SL innings. They must keep a slip, whatever situation comes to give proper cue to their bowlers. Need to keep same tactics as were in Pak-Aus match.

imranmiran
on October 3, 2012, 19:23 GMT

Pakistan vs Sri Lanka
who ever win we want to win world cup should be in sri lanka or in pakistan... good luck to both teams....

JG2704
on October 3, 2012, 19:22 GMT

As an England fan I have mixed feelings about the way I want this to go. Part of me wants Pakistan to win because I found their fans (by and large) extremely respectful towards our team/fans after they thrashed us in the test series earlier in the year. But part of me wants to see a SL/WI final because it would then rubbish all the comments which said that this group was a much weaker group. Hopefully I won't watch it live because hopefully it's going to be good enough weather to get out and about for the day tomorrow but I'll try and watch the highlights. I'm sure it will be a superb atmosphere with 2 sets of vociferous and colourful fans. Hope it's a good game and well played both sides for getting to the semis

onebump
on October 3, 2012, 19:20 GMT

Meetings cancelled, calendar blocked, working from home to watch on tv.. Come on Sri Lanka. Has to be THE year.

aqib12
on October 3, 2012, 19:18 GMT

Best Of Luck Sri Lanka.. But i want my Pakistan to take the cup.. Best of luck to both the nations.. Indians are nowhere now.. they dont know whom to support. best of luck next time Indians..!

Rici737
on October 3, 2012, 19:17 GMT

Does "Sri Lanka" have the mentality to win a tournament like world cup?

Htc-Android
on October 3, 2012, 19:12 GMT

I hope SL wins tomorow and reach the finals. Herath should play ahead of mendis. medis bowled poorly in the last 2 games and Pak play mendis very well. herath has good record against Pak. Sri lanka should look to bat first if they win the toss. Its really hard to chase against Pak world class spinners.

happy-go-lucky
on October 3, 2012, 19:11 GMT

As an Indian fan, this is what I want:

Pak thrashes SL, WI wins against AUS and in final WI wins!

Rici737
on October 3, 2012, 19:11 GMT

Dear Sri Lanka fans. You guys are the best of the best. God knows how to address,,,Lions or Tigers.,,,,Lions are out of dens and Roaring and Roaring. If Sri Lanka lose "'Sri Lankan pitches have changed' - Sangakkara" I love Sri Lanka, what a peaceful place. Good luck Sri Lanka go for it my man !!!

Cricket_Master_Mind
on October 3, 2012, 19:07 GMT

From Pakistan: I wish pakistan WINS but if they dont I will be happy , that the other team is Sri-Lanka.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 19:07 GMT

Best of Luck Sri Lanka- I know you can do it.Unlike other semi finals you have the best balance in Batting, Bowling & fielding.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 18:58 GMT

Wowww! most of the Pakistanis supporting SL as well its really good to see, as being Pakistani off course I'll support my team. But my 2nd fav team is SL! ;) so I won't be sad if Pak lose, only thing which i want theTrophy must belongs to Pak/SL. Best of Luck to both teams.

kunalx
on October 3, 2012, 18:57 GMT

@jasonpete you stole my words. respect brother. it's only cricket, so comments should be based totally on cricket. That's all I want to say.. :)

shazzar
on October 3, 2012, 18:53 GMT

Good Luck SL you going to need it. Joking, should be a good match, if pakistan play like they did against aust. Will be cheering on whoever gets to final, hope its pakistan.

sanurakith
on October 3, 2012, 18:50 GMT

Best of Luck for both teams... As a Sri Lankan fan, I don't mind victory of Pakistan... V r truely brotherly nations... However, I like to see that SL will take the trophy this time... & for sure, that's gonna happen...

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 18:50 GMT

Pak wins or SL.....I dont care. I wish Pak or SL win the final, as well.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 18:40 GMT

lol.Ive never seen a love among fans of two different countries before.I really really really hope SL wouldn't mess it up this time.

jasonpete
on October 3, 2012, 18:37 GMT

@sinhaya, hey mate, good luck for your team success .Hope they win the match and go onto win the cup which a long due for srilanka cricket.Regarding the cheering for opponents against Indians, the off field political stuff doesn't warranty to abuse here in public forum by SL fans especially in a cricket section.Even the pak vs ind match comment section was more civilised and purely based on cricket than the one which India lost to Australia and against SA match yesterday saw many SL fans were trashing indian team for no apparent reason.Its really saddening to see and many SL fans expect their comment section to be clean later on..Its really good to see Indians and Pakistan fans respect each other cricket team which others failing to do so.Anyway good luck mate.cheers to you.

Sagitarius1
on October 3, 2012, 18:34 GMT

@T20master007. Thats the spirit man, tell ur brothers not to blame others for India's knocking out of WC. By doing so they are not justifying Doni 11's ticket to India but giving every one a point to laugh.
@kunalx. U imagine, what wud have happened if Virat Kohli had gone back early against pak??? Its not the game of imaginations, its the game of ground situation

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 18:30 GMT

hoping for good cricket 2morow....with pakistan wining the match and making it to finals... :|

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 18:26 GMT

To all my Pakistani Friends

I will be more angry if you beat us and then go and lose the Final . So May the best Team Win Inshaalllah . Pakistani is my second Favorite Team As much as I would like to Sri Lanka to win I will also be sad if Pakistan loses. No matter who wins Pakistan will always be our Best Friend !!!

walidabbas
on October 3, 2012, 18:24 GMT

As a Pakistani I want Pakistan to win. But I love Sri lanka, wish both teams could win the world cup. If it was a final, I would have been praying for rain :) Good luck Pakistan and Sri Lanka

da_man_
on October 3, 2012, 18:10 GMT

@kunalx: Yes but Umar Gul DID click against the saffas, Umar Akmal also clicked. Against Aus Raza Hasan clicked, in England 2009, Afridi clicked. Against Pak in 2011 M Hussey definitely clicked in the semi. What's your point? When your players click, you have a better chance of winning matches...

Cric_info_pak
on October 3, 2012, 18:06 GMT

best of luck SL , i wish pakistan will win hope it will be good game .......

Zinnooran
on October 3, 2012, 18:02 GMT

Being a Pakistani, I am heartily supporting both teams, infact all 4 teams. Anyone can lift the cup. All are deserving. But for all those who are saying Sri Lanka is having home-advantage, keep in mind Pakistan don't mind it at all because they are playing without home advantage since 2007 and yet qualifying for all the semis after 2007 worldcup. Bring it ON guys. Lets c what you got. Best of luck to Sri Lanka & Pakistan

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 18:01 GMT

I wish all the best & best of luck for Lankan Lions, Sri Lanka should not be afraid of past records what matter is how good you perform on that particular day all they have to do is just play some positive Cricket with a real fighting spirit.

It is the Sri Lankans who want this title so desperately so go Lions bring glory to your country

God bless Sri Lanka Team

ansari.mohiuddin
on October 3, 2012, 18:01 GMT

If Pakistan plays good with bat then there is nothing that may stop them for final...

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 17:54 GMT

It's going to be a ding dong battle.A score of 170 plus will be the winner.
Sangakkara should strengthen the middle order insted coming at # 3.
One down shouyld be Thirimanne or pay a technical knockout playing Tisara
Perare at# 3. Commentators should be Harsha B and Wasim Raja + Sanjay
Manjrekar. Keep Arnold out. Good luck Lions..

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 17:29 GMT

I think the law of averages will catch up with the lankans tomorrow. Regardless of who so ever wins is the same thing for the fans. If Sri Lanka moves on, we will cheer for them in the finals.

Ra_Thore
on October 3, 2012, 17:11 GMT

Sorry, the word is out and SL will win. Both are star teams for this short format but conditions and support will have it the Lankan way.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 17:08 GMT

This game is like toss, you never know which side would win... As Sri lankan I was cheering for south africa to come in to semi's instead of india & pakistan. Looks like we are in for tough battle tomorrow. Most of the paks thinks the cup is there's which is good for us, I rather we go as the underdogs to this match than Favorites... I still remember that final in England :(

SriSanka
on October 3, 2012, 17:06 GMT

Good luck Sri Lanka........both teams are deserve to be in SF according their performances in the tournament.....
Its a brotherly contest between unpredictable, talented Pakistan and consistent, well balanced Sri Lanka........Mahela's captaincy would be the decisive factor here. As a Sri lankan I love to see SL winning this match and the T20 cup.....SL desperately needing this cup after long long time........ 1996 cup

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 17:06 GMT

@Narbavi so what you are sayn is your papper heroes only can beat sri lanka , india not in semi is not up to any one but to there own faults , with your countrys population you should be winning every world tournement man ,, keep it up , wow ur line up awesome , rohith sharma score 26 or sumthing out of how many balls IDK , TEWENTY 20 @ HIS BEST I GUESS , well Lions no need acalades , WE ARE THERE WHEN IT IS MATTERS DUDE , we dont need any1 help to qualify we did it grand sstyle . PUT UP OR SHUT UP

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 17:02 GMT

No Matter who wins.... we want a Good cricket match :)

Regards,
Pakistani

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 17:00 GMT

Looks like a Sri Lankan victory 2mrw & a final with Aus.Definately Lankan Lions will be hard to beat. World champs which miss in 2010.All d best boys

kunalx
on October 3, 2012, 16:58 GMT

@Sinhaya whatever it is, you can't feel the pain of winning a match literally against 3 teams (AUS, SAF, PAK) but still not qualifying. Only I can feel. Anyway, best of luck to both teams. May best one wins in a last over encounter :)

T20master007
on October 3, 2012, 16:56 GMT

Im also a indian fan but please indian fans stop crying now that oo sirilanka will b happy that India is not in Semi's. you all sound like a broken record. the fact of the matter is, we lost in the super eight. Sirilanka Pakistan, Aus and westindies are better then our team thats why they made it to the semis. our bowling is a joke and expect virat noone played good thruot the tournament. Except the facts and move. better luck next time if they organise the team better or bring some real talent then the wana be's. also we need to get rid of Dhoni who instead of excepting his mistakes keeps telling us oo there was rain blah blah blah. he sees us fans whinning so he does the same things too. after all he is one of us lol

yorkslanka
on October 3, 2012, 16:54 GMT

Good luck to Sri Lanka for tomorrow. Obviously ,I want us to win but if we do lose, I hope Pakistan lifts the cup. To our players, we hope you give it your best and continue to make us proud...

kunalx
on October 3, 2012, 16:51 GMT

@SKKhan do not live by history. I never said all year was fluke. This year surely fluke. Aussies just helped them to get rid of India. I respect all the players of PAK but then were inconsistent. Just guess what happend if Umar Gul didn't click that night against SAF, simple, you should be watching IND-SL tomorrow.

SL_4EVER
on October 3, 2012, 16:49 GMT

Pakistan & Srilanka are very good friends in and off the field. So i wish both the teams good luck. May the best team win. From a die hard Srilankan fan.

T20master007
on October 3, 2012, 16:47 GMT

I am a Indian Fan but the way thay have played in the tournament was not upto my standards. they payed good but not better then Pak and Aus who joined Sirilanka and west indies and they joined Newzeland and England at the airport. also people are who are making excuses that india was in tough groupe, please dont be navie they were not the only ones in that group. Pakistan and australia were also their who made it to the semis. if pak can beat Auustrlia by 33 runs why could nt they bowled out South africa for more then 31 runs so they would had made it to the semis. to me Grapes are sour!!!

kunalx
on October 3, 2012, 16:46 GMT

@bbrkhn0459 you didn't get my post. I whole heartily want Pakistan to win though I think pak performance in S8 was fluke. India is atleast 5% better than them. Pak has world's best bowling side but still unable to all out any team. India had wrost bowling side and they did 4 times. Best of luck to PAK

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 16:40 GMT

Go Team Green!!this Time world cup belongs to us!!Go Cornered Tigers!!Buck Up!!

sujanm
on October 3, 2012, 16:39 GMT

I wont be surprised if Ajantha Mendis gets dropped for tomorrows game and Herath plays instead. Herath has a history against Pakistan.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 16:39 GMT

I think Sri Lanka has a better chance of winning the match against our team Pakistan because they are playing fearless cricket and more importantly playing as a team and Pakistan is depending on individual brilliance. If any of Pakistani player bring out his A game then it would be difficult for Sri Lanka to match them.

SaadRocx
on October 3, 2012, 16:34 GMT

It will gonna be like"Brother VS Brother"so who ever wins ,dont care much....even if my pak loses tomorrow i wud not be dissappointed ,as they played well in the tournament ...apart from that loss at the hands of India (which is simply not acceptable to me )...!

cricfan27721134
on October 3, 2012, 16:30 GMT

As a Sri Lankan I would love to see my team winning tomorrow and definitely we will cheer for that... Having said that, I believe most Sri Lankans now a days don't have any issue regarding even losing a game, as long as our team play good and competitive cricket. What we want is to see our guys putting 100% in the field and let the better team win on the day...... Other thing is Sri Lankan people normally like cricket teams without any "show off" like Pakistan, New Zealand, South Africa, West Indies and even current Australian team which is completely different than past Aussie teams, in terms of attitude. Really happy about the way tournament has progressed and let the better team win the cup. Cheers !

Harmony111
on October 3, 2012, 16:29 GMT

If I am asked to support either SL or Pak then I will support Pakistan. Why? Cos the Pakistani fans have been very sporting in their comments in the past while the SL fans have hardly ever said anything in favor of India. I still remember just how full of praise the Pak fans were after Kohli had scored 183* in Asia Cup and some had even expressed their astonishment at the level of maturity of Kohli and the ease with which India chased 300+ in that match. Compare that to the attitude of SL fans who till date grudge Kohli for scoring 138* in much more challenging conditions and refuse to admit that India produced perhaps the greatest run chase of all times in Hobart. My respect for Pak fans has increased tremendously while it is the exact opposite for the SL fans. Even yesterday, several Pak fans were appreciative of India in this WT20 and said that it was just one bad match that cost India.The SL fans, as always, just can't say anything good for India. Go Pak Go, thrash SL.

drshoobi
on October 3, 2012, 16:29 GMT

Prayers of whole nation will be the with u PAK team
Hafeez should come with strategy different from the last match.Asad should play instead of nazir.Razzaq will bat at no.4 in order to make good contribution.Afridi will be given chance according to situation.Regarding bowling,one over should be bowled by AJMAL in power play and Gul bowl after the 12th over...AJMAL & Razzaq will be key players for PAK against SRI LANKA..wish u best of luck the PAK team

intrepid_khan
on October 3, 2012, 16:26 GMT

hey ! tomorrows match is unfortunately between two brothers , i wish best of luck to both teams :) n i wish that any of these two teams may lift the WC :) lets support these two teams till finals :) !!! WC should come back to Asia !!!

qadian1947
on October 3, 2012, 16:23 GMT

Pakistan have played well recently but Sri Lanka also. it will be close match and whoever loses they will know they did good to get to this stage

johnathonjosephs
on October 3, 2012, 16:20 GMT

It seems as if staying for the SLPL has helped Pakistani players immensely. It is ironic to say that in the last 5 years after the IPL has started in India, India has only been able to win 2 matches in the super 8 stages (out of 5 years) and have not reached the semi final once.

SunnyFernando
on October 3, 2012, 16:19 GMT

As a Sri Lankan, I don't have high expectations either based on the past performances. Winning is something not part of SL culture. We are happy-to-be-there people. It takes years to change that Island mentality approach.

jerryman
on October 3, 2012, 16:18 GMT

only change should be to bring in herath for ajanta mendis , and believe that sanga should bat about 5 down . Think jeevan mendis , thrimanne ,matthews , perera shud come in before to accelaerate the scoring .
Shud open with spin at one end and have malinga bowl at least 3 of his overs at the death .. good luck to both teams , may the better side win... fielding will be very important , hope its not sloppy ...

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 16:18 GMT

the best des the win my best wishes are for both of them...but the first semi must look like the semi final like super eight start with the thriller ...

ifabbas
on October 3, 2012, 16:17 GMT

Either Pak wins or SL I'll be happy because both teams are my favorite.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 16:16 GMT

Yup its true that Srilanka is the best team at their on territory, but when u look up on the past history , they haven't won a single t20 at Colombo......so my wish is for Pakistan!!!!!!!
It should be a great contest........:)

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 16:16 GMT

it is going to be a cracker !!!!

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 16:14 GMT

the srilankan team has definitely worked hard for this,and things seem to their way so far,but pakistan have the advantages of the spin bowlers not leaving out the fact of pakistan having the 2 best spin bowers i the world...but anyways good luck to both of the teams :)

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 16:11 GMT

As a Pakistani i would reallly like to win tomorrow but if in case Srilanka wins....
i will be even happier for them :)they are real tigers and they desrve more than semifinal ... all my best wishes with both teams ... On Behalf of All Pakistani Nation ...we love u SRILANKA

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 16:09 GMT

hoping to see a good game of cricket, may the best team win , good luck sri-lanka and Pakistan. ......... best wishes to our lankan brothers from pak :D

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 16:07 GMT

as a Pakistani i want my team to win but i love SL too. so will be a good contest so the one who will win tommorrow should plz get the trophy too because i donot want any other team besides pak,sl to lift this year trophy :)

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 16:07 GMT

It is great to see most of the Pakistan and sl fans wishing each other team, as a sl fan i hope that we can win this match. and if n
ot hope pakisthan can hv their 2nd tropy

AamiUsa
on October 3, 2012, 16:04 GMT

Being a Pakistn fan, it is very hard for me to wish for Pak and SL lost...:(

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 16:03 GMT

i am reading all the comments of indian mates, and really can't stop my giggles on thier blames.

jasonpete
on October 3, 2012, 16:03 GMT

Best of luck to both teams.Hope srilanka hold the nerve and play good cricket ,the way they showed during super8s.good luck.Cheers.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 16:02 GMT

I just want a good game of cricket, however being a Pakistani I am inclined to go with the Greenshirts but best of luck to the Sri Lankans all the same. They cheered for us throughout this tournament and I want to thank them for that. I also hope people get their money's worth and may the best team win :)

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 16:00 GMT

@ kunalx , After SL our next fav team is Pak so we will always cheer for them when they are not playing with us

HapppyFeet
on October 3, 2012, 15:56 GMT

How I wish Pak doesn't face SL in knock-out phases. We Pakistanis do have a soft spot for SL!

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:53 GMT

I'm a Pakistani and my second best Team in Cricket is Srilanka but only one of them have to go through the Finals so I wish it will be PK meeting WI in Finals......

Sagitarius1
on October 3, 2012, 15:52 GMT

Being a Pakistani my support is for my team, but if we lose against SL I'll support SL in the final too. SL is our second team.
@youbasherscreatedme. There were no combine effort to knock out India. They were thrown out due to their own mistakes and ill discipline in their team (the fights among them). If India were that tough opponent, hadn't they gone back to India.

Neutral_Guy
on October 3, 2012, 15:51 GMT

I'M SURPRISED BY THE INVISIBLE HANDS BEHIND THE WORLD CUP SCHEDULE.. Sri Lanka hosts the world cup, but plays the group stage at a fast-track ground, super 8 at a lesser-paced ground, and the most important "eliminator" in slower track, Premadasa, that too for the first time in the tournament! India, on the other hand, have played all their games in Premadasa, being given a great chance to adapt to one venue.. I assume the hand is BCCI..

Amjad_Gilani
on October 3, 2012, 15:50 GMT

well both of last matches were thrilling and exciting,, it was very tough group from which two good teams india and south africa eliminated but now hope so that pak and australia will meet in the final and pakistan having a good chance to win this world cup with great spin options but for this their batting line should have to perform especially openers they should have to give a chance to Razzaq or Afridi as a opener replacing imran nazir

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:50 GMT

We (Pakistani) are thankful to SL people for supporting PAK on ground.
Its same whoever wins . b/c ......

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:49 GMT

@youbasherscreatedme: Thank you for supporting us but 'easy group?' You mean the group that has WI who consist of the likes of T20 greats like Gayle, Pollard, Samuels, Narine etc? England who despite the absence of KP are still a strong side with the likes of Morgan, Wright, Broad, Swann? Or NZ who always punch above their weight in World Cups and T20s and recently beat India in India extending their record to 4-0? SL had to play in all three venues whereas the likes of Australia and India played all their matches at Premadasa. FYI the teams were seeded according to their T20 rankings NOT by lottery. @kunalx: If Indian fans barring some were as gracious and humble as the Pakistanis, we would've supported you too like in the 90s and early 2000s. Anyway it's not our support that caused India to exit but your own poor performance. That being said good luck against England. As for Pakistan, thank you for all the support and good wishes. may the best team win tomorrow

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:49 GMT

@Kunalx, Pakistani and Sri Lankan fans share special camaraderie. I as a Pakistani wouldn't mind losing to a graceful team such as SriLanka. Oh btw, thanks for predicting a Pakistani win!

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:48 GMT

@ Kirla Niranjan Not 2010 WC T20 Its WT2009
Got It!

virajlk89
on October 3, 2012, 15:47 GMT

as a sri lankan fan i always support our team...but always our 2nd favorite team is pakistan..if you beat us and come for the final...definitely we support u..in the 96 world cup final you gave us a lot of ground cheer..gud luck for both teams..

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:47 GMT

Pakistani spin may be too hot to handle tomorrow. Its a 60-40 thing for the side batting first.

But something tells me .. tomorrow is Imran Nazirs day.

And this stupid argument, Aus SA Pak worked together to kick bharat out .. Bharat never had the bowling to win this tournament.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:46 GMT

Pakistan is likely to beat Srilanka comprehesivly. Threre is no team tougher than Australia. If grean shirts can beat them, they can beat any team including Sri Lanka

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:44 GMT

I think SL have a slight advantage with their spin-playing ability and the home advantage but still expect a cracker tomorow.

oops292
on October 3, 2012, 15:40 GMT

ZAB2121 @ it might be all 20 overs of spin if Shoaib malik bowls well :-) . Umar gul might only be used as a pinch hitter ... and Razzak .. u leave bowling boye and start hitting them massive sixes u once used to hit . One thing is for sure . it won't be a joy ride for SL as Pak is coming from a tougher group and after beating teams like SAF and Aus , so their moral will be very high . Wish all the best to Pakistan . May they lift the cup yet again.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:40 GMT

I am a die hard pakistani fan, but i regard srilanka the most in the cricketing world, they are amazing people ethically along with their superb cricketing skills !! They have been always supporting us and thanks for that ,
I still wish Pakistan wins, but even if we looose, i wont be sad at all, rather be happy for Lankan bros, and wish they win the trophy.... !!

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:39 GMT

PAKISTAN...EAST ARE WEST PAKISTAN IS BEST...CARRY ON ..GOD BLESS U

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:37 GMT

I am a great fan of Pakistan cricket team and hope best for them, I know SL is a dangerous team and capable of doing anything, but this is the right time for Afridi, Nazir and Kamram to perform as their records against SL is very good, almost everything is balanced between two teams except the spin department and worry for SL is Sanga form, hope Afridi to repeat what he done in WC 2011 against them, Good Luck Lala

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:34 GMT

For me, Sri-Lanka and Pakistan were the two strongest candidate for the finals. But bad luck to the teams. Sri-Lanka and Australia will play the final. Sri-lanka will take the cup home :)

ahs123
on October 3, 2012, 15:33 GMT

I m a Pakistani patriotic supporter....just mad abt cricket n my country... how ever i just wana thank sirilanka for always putting up a lovely show on ground... they always have been a treat to watch... hop it will be a lovely final... n IN SHA ALLAH Pakistan will win... and win the world cup as well.. really hoping....

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:33 GMT

SL is a great side in this tournament, but the Pakistan is greater enough to overcome them tomorrow :-)

ALA1
on October 3, 2012, 15:33 GMT

I am a Pakistani. Well being a Pakistani I will love to see Pakistan become the champs again. I hoped that these two sides play the final because both are my favourite teams. Well best of luck to Pakistan and Sri lanka . Wish the winner of this match goes onto win the cup.

kickassPakistan
on October 3, 2012, 15:32 GMT

Srilanka is my second favorite team after Pakistan so it's going to be a cracker of a match. I remember meeting all lankan players as a kid in the hotel lobby in Karachi when they came for their first test tour in 1983(my favorite was Roy Dias) and then cheering for them crazy in the Lahore stadium in the 1996 world cup final(Arvinda was my favorite then) but tomorrow is another day and inshallah Pakistan will win but if we don't then i hope Sri lanka lifts the trophy.
Lovin it

cricket_lover777
on October 3, 2012, 15:30 GMT

It is so sad to see Indians posting negative comments about Team Pakistan. Come on guys, grow up ! As far as tomorrows game, I am not so sure who is going to win but I do guarantee you that it will be a hell of a contest.

ABKhanISB
on October 3, 2012, 15:29 GMT

I am a Pakistani and a big fan of Sri Lankan team. Doesnt matter who will win tomorrow but I am sure the game will be entertaining. If we dont win, I hope Sri Lanka will be the world champion.

P.S: I dont understand why some people have problems if Sri Lanka called Pakistani their brothers? We all love Sri Lanka's team

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:27 GMT

Very happy to see semi final between two great cricketing nations. Wish u all the best Sri Lanka. I am supporting my team "Pakistan" but love Sri Lankan fans they always support us, thanks very much

Baber_Baloch
on October 3, 2012, 15:27 GMT

Best wishes for both great teams....hope to see good cricket Inshah,Allah

BattosaiXX
on October 3, 2012, 15:26 GMT

Its more like athe final, as the team that win this will win the tournament. Aus will beat West Indies and Aus is pakistan's Bunny.

LoVePaK4U
on October 3, 2012, 15:26 GMT

Off Course the team who will play good, that team will b winner at the END..however we can pray only,

solankibhavesh
on October 3, 2012, 15:25 GMT

Now Srilanka will win the WC T20 becos indian team are out of tournament and

keptalittlelow
on October 3, 2012, 15:25 GMT

I am a Pakistan fan who has the greatest respect for the Sri Lankans, they are a bunch of true sportsmen. Lets hope the best team wins tomorrow.

Rjmaahii
on October 3, 2012, 15:25 GMT

as soon as i end my celebration for reaching in semifinals once again ... i realized we gonna play Siri lanka the lions ...ahhhh that's what i never wished to play them in knock outs... we as a nation respect them a lot... so.... team Sri lanka wish u all the best... all the way from Pakistan.... cricket is cricket but we love u guys

SwingReverse
on October 3, 2012, 15:24 GMT

For SL, this game is bigger then the WC T20 2009 Final against Pak. They are going to bat first if toss is won, however Pak bowlers can be dangerously surprising on their day! I hope to see a good match....Whoever wins on Thursday, will face an interesting opponent in the final on Sunday.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:23 GMT

Another Pakistani here, my heart want Pakistan to win it, but my mind telling me it would be SL, Pak only good on their days, but SL is more consistent side, Pak has some good batsman but SL not only some good but have two great batsman.

Pak has good spin bowling and so so pace attack, but SL are good spin players and Mallinga is one the best in the business.

Pak is mostly a poor or average fielding team, as SL are best fielder in this sub continent. Only mricle could give Pakistan a victory and I want mricle tomorrow.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:21 GMT

AOA, I am a Pakistani but we would like to have a good cricket. It doesn't matter to us if SL or Pak win as long as Pak plays well. Best of luck to both teams!

Master_Mihil
on October 3, 2012, 15:21 GMT

Wel!l well! we are up against the "Giant Killing" Pakistan. We don't deserve the trophy without beating them, and Pak can show by beating us when the pak juggernaut gets going it is unstoppable. May the best team win.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:20 GMT

50/50 but we are weak against Pakistan's bowlers

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:19 GMT

being a pakistani i always love srilankans and have lot of respect for them wish u all the the semifinalist n plz all the srlnkn and pak fans spread friendly environment and show indians to what extant we r friendly to each other .cricinfo plz publish

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:18 GMT

After Pakistan, Srilanka is my second most favorite team. That's why i really didn't want them to lock horns in semi final. It would have been wonderful to see both of them in Final but alas, only one will proceed further.

ali_rizvi7
on October 3, 2012, 15:18 GMT

Best Of luck team Pakistan..n yes srilanka is like our brothers we supported each other on many occasions its a game not a battle,n i cheer srilanka beside my team.India is not a big obsticle they haven't qualified in last 3 T2o World cups.

stormy16
on October 3, 2012, 15:18 GMT

This is it for SL - a shot at a home final comes around once in a life time and SL are well placed to get there. Pak are probably not the worst opponent to hope for but if Pakistan have a good day, few teams will beat them. Alot depends on the wicket and if its a fresh wicket expect Pakistan to play Sohail Tanvir and Perera could bowl for the first time. I also expect SL to replace either Ajantha or Akila with with pace bowler. The ball seemed to swing a bit at night and it would be ironic if pace plays a role in the semi final.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:17 GMT

I'm a Pakistani and I really do have a soft corner for SL. Sanga, Mahela, Mathews, all are great sportsmen and great human beings. Apart from all that, we are expecting a good contest tomorrow. INDIAN fans will surely support SL because the worst ever feeling for them is they got out and PAK made through. LOL no mercy.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:17 GMT

Being a pakistani i rank
1)Paki
2)Lankans

same as sri lankan so
1)lankan
2)Paki

hope for the best game i love both of the team alot :)
i do support lankan always but against pak i'd cheer for pak.........both team are excellent :)

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:15 GMT

I am Pakistani and i am proud of my team well played professor 11, i would like to thanks all Sirilankan fans for their unlimited support for Pakistan and Thank You each and everyone for the hospitality, for me who ever win this semi battle should win the ICC T20 championship either Srilanka or Pakistan.
May the best team wins
SALMAN

xylofon
on October 3, 2012, 15:14 GMT

Im a pak fan so I hope pak wins but like someone says if Lanka win then I hope they crush whomever they meet in the final especially if its a kickass team like australia. Lanka really deserve this and at home ground it would be so wonderful to see them lift the trophy. I can honestly say that.

For pak strategy they seriously need to look at Malinga. Hes tough and its possible to use that pace for cutshots and whatnot to reach boundaries through fours safely, especially during the powerplay.

Having said that I believe we have a battle of spins on our hands! Cant wait.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:13 GMT

We will hope SL to go all the way to the final and win the cup.However if Pakistan wins ,they should bring the cup back to Asia.Either way we can be proud then.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:13 GMT

Heres to a good game!
lets not beat around the bush though...this is a world cup SEMI FINAL!

Bring your "A" games!!!

Pakistan Zindabad

avas
on October 3, 2012, 15:12 GMT

I hope for Pakistan wins, but i like everyone I also like SL cricket. Good luck SL.. hope its a good match

cric4pak
on October 3, 2012, 15:12 GMT

Once again the most powerful semi-final dominant teamz have secured their spot in T20. It would turn out to be a great clash. Good luck Pakistan & our brother SL. Hope tomorrows match would be a good one!

cricfan27721134
on October 3, 2012, 15:11 GMT

As a Sri Lankan I would love to see my team winning tomorrow and definitely we will cheer for that... Having said that, I believe most Sri Lankans now a days don't have any issue regarding even losing a game, as long as our team play good and competitive cricket. What we want is to see our guys putting 100% in the field and let the better team win on the day...... Other thing is Sri Lankan people normally like cricket teams without any "show off" like Pakistan, New Zealand, South Africa, West Indies and even current Australian team which is completely different than past Aussie teams, in terms of attitude. Really happy about the way tournament has progressed and let the better team win the cup. Cheers !

Prabhash1985
on October 3, 2012, 15:11 GMT

@JayPmorgan: Thanks mate for your nice words... This is the game I wanted to see for a quite long time... It doesn't matter even if we get defeated to Pakistan team... They are our brothers... It will be a very tough game for both sides as both sides are full of talent, and they just do well mostly at the right time... But, at the same time, both teams are SOOOO UNPREDICTABLE! :D

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:09 GMT

wish you the all de best to lanka lions

davidatlas999
on October 3, 2012, 15:08 GMT

As a pakistani always wish pak win.but srilanka have many advantage home ground and crowd.some very good T20 batsmen also have a very good bowling attack.pak bowling is good but too many
Spiners and we know sri batsmen is good playing them.pak have un predictable batting.but you never know what about pak.so set back and feel the fire best of luck both team.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:06 GMT

Being a Pakistani, I am supporting Pakistan. But Sri Lanka is my 2nd Fav. Team ... their game is pure and they have a spirited team. I wish them luck and IF they beat us I will pray that they Win the World Cup As well :D

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:05 GMT

Thanks to Sri Lankans peoples....Good wish for both teams...Just play outstanding cricket...No matter who wins...Who ever wins this semi...V pray that also win the Trophy...A Pakistani Fan...

Hasnat-18
on October 3, 2012, 15:05 GMT

I am Pakistani fan, but won't be disappointed if SL win the SF. They are true competitors and possess great sportsmanship. In fact from now on any time win will be great for Cricket, except Australia (they are great side but they already have too many titles under their belt). SL have been in SF and Final so many times so they deserve t20 title. If WI win it will be revival of cricket in carribean. If Pakistan win, it will be great news for cricket fans who don't see cricket on their deserted grounds. So best of Luck to SL, WI and Pakistan. Hope to see great game of Cricket in first SF.

InnocentGuy
on October 3, 2012, 15:04 GMT

Good luck to all teams. After India, I like Pak and SA, but I do hope SL wins this. They have come agonizingly close so many times.

IAK-USA
on October 3, 2012, 15:04 GMT

@ kunalx: grow up boy.
The SL and Pak fans are more DECENT and SPORTS LOVER unlike people like you. These fans alteast have the courage to cheer other teams unlike you.

When will you guys grow up and be educated enough to see a match as a sport and enjoy it. If you can't see other teams win-then its not worth watching any match and commenting about it

karachidude23
on October 3, 2012, 15:03 GMT

@Jimi01 -->we respect the Srilankans and the cricket they play,we feel closer to them than some other nations,hoping for a good match :)

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 15:00 GMT

1. Sri Lanka are used to the humid conditions; yes most top international T20 players experience hot conditions in the IPL and The Big Bash in Australia, but nothing quite compares to the humidity of a clammy night in Colombo. Being used to the conditions is certainly in Sri Lanka's favour, and of detriment to Australia and England, who are fielding some very inexperienced players at international level.

2. Home support; the ferociously fanatical support of a national side cannot be underestimated in T20 cricket. Having a home crowd behind you can inspire a bowler like Malinga to spear in a yorker, or a batsman like Dilshan to scoop a six. Also the crowds cheering and singing, or bands hammering the drums can help a team build momentum, in batting, or in the field. All Sri Lanka games in the tournament promise to be sell-outs, with over 90% being local supporters.

3. Mahela Jayawardene; an inspirational captain of the side, I would expect Mahela to find the peak of his batting prowes

Mohammad.Imran.Hyder
on October 3, 2012, 14:59 GMT

only the most predictably unpredictable team will win today.......... and we all know the winner now :). no regrets and with all due respect to my sri lankan fellows

ysatti
on October 3, 2012, 14:59 GMT

Dear ..... I am Pakistani and very pleased to see Asian champion (Pakistan) into samis. However, I am going to just enjoy tomorrow's game. I am not supporting Any team. Who ever win will delineatly win the Title :)
We Pakistanis never consider Sri Lanka as our opponents, This game will be just like a friendly match.

In other match, I support Chris Gayle and reson why West Indies ...

srilankan1984
on October 3, 2012, 14:59 GMT

Wow..what a contest we are having in this t20 world cup..good pitches,good cricket all around,good,knowledgable crowd, come on srilanka!! We proud of u my little mother land!!

Solid_Snake
on October 3, 2012, 14:58 GMT

Pak has reached the Semis 4th time in a Row..
That surely is something not a fluke.Now lets see the performance of India in last WC's..
Indian won the WC T20 in 2007..After that Indian team performance was pathetic in all upcoming WC's till now.
in T20 WC 2009 India lost all 3 matches in super 8
during T20 WC 2010 India again lost all 3 matches in super 8

In current tournament India won 4/5 matches..So if we see the performance in last 2 WC's,this my friend seems to be a Fluke how India performed well in currently.

PS->If Pak lose tomorrow,i would not get dissapointed because our team did well.But tomorrow judging from some of the comments, i know there will be a celebrating day in India if Pak gets knocked out

Herath-UK
on October 3, 2012, 14:58 GMT

I hope it is going to be a close game and the Lankans will pull it off at the end.Do not forget there is a Sri Lankan (Dave) on the otherside pulling strings and tasted WC victory with SL.Mendis should be back to his best and Mahela should have a plan B if he struggles.
Ranil Herath - Kent

OhPakistan
on October 3, 2012, 14:57 GMT

Sri Lankan side looks good, well equipped. Sri Lanka will be targeting the suspect Pakistan batting. But make no mistake, by now Jayawardene would be wary of tactics "The Professor" will employ tomorrow. Thinking Professor's achievements are well advertised ! Hafeez definitely will have different strategy for the game. After demolition job ( against AUS), scars of the India debacle seems cured and Pakistan forms a formidable opponent. On-song Pakistan will be a mountain to climb/toughest cookie Sri Lanka faced so far. On the other hand, Pakistan are "BATTLE HARDENED" and gone through all ( pressure ) situations. We need to wait and see how S/Lanka respond ( UNDER COSH ). Early blows/exchanges and NERVES will have a direct bearing on final outcome. Although S/Lanka ticks all the boxes, I am quietly confident of PAKI-POWER and "The Professor" to come up triumphs ! GO PAKI GO ya beauty !!!

lankavigi
on October 3, 2012, 14:57 GMT

A match where anything can happen. It all depends on which team starts well and handles pressure the best. Pakistan would have had an edge over SL, if they didn't have that nag to be unpredictable. SL are good, but if Pakistan play at their best, they can beat any team. But again recent records say SL. They know Pakistan well and succeeded in all formats against them when they toured SL earlier in the year. If Pakistan play in shambolic way, SL will be too good for them and will surely win. So, I feel that both sides have no edge over one another. It all boills down to who starts well and handles the pressure on the day. The team that wins here should go through to win the World t20!!

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 14:57 GMT

On behalf of Pakistan we r thankful 4 srilankan support but tomorrow we will not b because this T20 cup is Ours... Gooo Pakistan Go and win the cup..

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 14:57 GMT

Why Indian fans are so pissed??? Your team was knock out fair! They didn't have a good run rate! Lose is a lose, accept it! I am a Pakistani, Appreciate cricket! Whole Pakistan doesn't like Virat Kohli (Literally because he's an awesome run scoring machine). It doesn't mean we start calling India Fluke or One man team! Game is a game, put politics apart.

IAK-USA
on October 3, 2012, 14:55 GMT

No matter, who thrases whome- we are likely to see some thrilling matches form TOP FOUR world teams. All four teams deserved the semifinal birth.
Only one team can win a match in sports so DONOT show your frustration by using words "Thrashing" etc.
GOOG LUCK to both teams in the forst semifinal.

Sinhaya
on October 3, 2012, 14:55 GMT

@kunalx, Lankans cheered Pakistan and Australia in the Super 8 games all due to India's off field relationship with Sri Lanka. I meant it was all political. I wish if that did not happen but hope you understand what we Lankans feel also.

jzigbe
on October 3, 2012, 14:52 GMT

My favorite teams, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and West Indies are in the semis! I hope they play good cricket and one of them wins.

Narbavi
on October 3, 2012, 14:52 GMT

Surely this is their best chance since their prayers of not having India as opponents have been answered last night!!

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 14:50 GMT

I want SL's expectations to be boosted sky high and the higher they are , the easier it'll become for Pakistan to kick them out as well which will happen eventually. The only way SL can win if Paki's batting fails like match against India but its highly unlikely now when they have played against 3 toughest teams in super eight. And as the rule applies on all sports, team coming from the tougher group is hot fav. Cheers! :)

Return-of-Sinhaya
on October 3, 2012, 14:50 GMT

Oh lanka lanka lanka lanka,look at them.Their bowling is good till they face IND. Guys like Malinga mendis kulasekara will be so pleased that IND didnt make it. And this new kid ABCDEZ Dananjaya wud have stopped playing cricket and would have gone back to his studies had he played IND... Lucky Lanka

AneYako
on October 3, 2012, 14:49 GMT

@kunalx: still a bit sad about getting kicked out eh? OT: Should be a fantastic match. Two teams I supported. I hope SL wins. Either way it should be a great contest to watch as both teams are filled with talented and in form players

10Devils
on October 3, 2012, 14:49 GMT

Go SriLanka Go !! Best of luck to LOINZZZZZZZZZZ. It's time to ROAR with pride. Just do it !!

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 14:47 GMT

Sri Lanka is the one team that benefitted from the run-rate driven outcome in the Ind-SA-OZ-Pak group. Had India made it through and not Pak, another proper spanking was on the cards for SL. Now SL fans can breathe with some relief, but only a little. If the Pak that played against OZ shows up in the semis - then it is bye bye SL. Home advantage notwithstanding.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 14:46 GMT

why india is so weak. cricket better of playing kabadi.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 14:45 GMT

As a pakistan fan its obvious i want pakistan to win,but our sri lankan brothers are our second favourites! If not pak then i'm definitely rooting for sri lanka!

ghallusahb
on October 3, 2012, 14:45 GMT

It seems to be a very good combat between pakistan and Sri Lanka, as pakistan has their strength in spin bowling and SL has strength in playing against spin....So hoping a very healthy stuff tomorrow....Good luck for both the teams.....

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 14:43 GMT

best of luck sri lanka..im a pakistani..i wish pak win bt if not i like to seee sri lanka lifiting the cup...ur players were gr8 wen they were attacked by THEM in lahore.n im sure if any team will start cricket in pak again ,tht will b srilnka...bangladesh made a mess of it...childish behaviour...im v happy tht my fav team is in finals :) pak or sri lanka...

Htc-Baseball
on October 3, 2012, 14:43 GMT

@Mihil Ranathunga: Obvious i feel u somehow get to choose the teams u play.Like in 2011 WC (eng in QF and newzl in SF).Again here dumped in a group of mediocres.No wonder mate

bbrkhn0459
on October 3, 2012, 14:42 GMT

@kunalx... don't underestimate pakistan, right now they are the most dangerous T20 side, at the moment, only Pak can beat Australia, W.Indies, Srilanka.... no other team can beat Srilanka at the moment, pak know the physchie of Srilankas v.well, and they play spin v.well, pak got Ajmal's dosra, would b v.tough for Srilankan players 2 pick

virk282
on October 3, 2012, 14:42 GMT

we have still soft corner for sri lankan brothers but pray for pakistan,s victory...........may Allah bless pakistan..............and pakistan play the final against windies,,,,,,,,,,,

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 14:42 GMT

Best of Luck to both the teams!! As a Pakistani fan, I am rooting for Pakistan to go all the way, but I have to admit that I have a soft spot for Sri Lanka as well. If Pakistan does not turn up or ends up on the wrong side of the result, I would wish to see Sri Lanka go all the way to win the trophy!!

Ray24
on October 3, 2012, 14:41 GMT

To our Sri Lankan brothers, all the best for tomorrows' game from a Pakistani fan. I hope we have a great game and wish Pakistan wins. But all in all, one of us has to win this tournament!

Htc-Baseball
on October 3, 2012, 14:40 GMT

Srilanka my gudness,how lucky they are.IN 2011 WC THEY GOT INTO FINALS BY BEATING NZ AND IN SEMIS WON AGAINST ENGLAND.WHEREAS INDIA ENTERED FINALS BEATING AUSTRALIA AND PAKISTAN. And again here look at them,won against WI ENG NZ.. No wonder they do well in ICC tournaments..

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 14:40 GMT

Best Of Luck to Both teams Pakistan and Sri Lanka..
For Both of you <3

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 14:39 GMT

Being Pakistani, I support my team but after Pakistan, Srilanka is my 2nd favorite team and I wish the one who will play better, will win.

Pakistan's un-predictability is big worry for every playing nation and Sri Lankan will be confused to use their options. That will favor Pakistan to reach in finals.

Shazia_Javed
on October 3, 2012, 14:38 GMT

I have all the respect for SriLanka and its team... Pakistan is inconsistent (and unpredictable) and SriLanka have an edge for being very professional... Wishing both teams a very good game... Go Pak and SL. People claiming that SL cheered for Pak so that India lose and they dont have to face them are talking illogical. India lost it becasue of their own performance. No team is of type that will lose by the 'cheers' of the crowd... not a good excuse. I am not trying to rude, just stating a fact. from a Pak fan.

onebump
on October 3, 2012, 14:38 GMT

I bet we (SL) will run into Afridi... he always gets into super form when in a knockout or final situation....

Will be a slow painful contest. Entertaining for the neutral, but nail biting for the supporters. Hope a few hundred million Indians would be supporting SL as that would help.... bring it on...

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 14:38 GMT

The one who will play better will win. I am a Pakistani and I support my team, but on other hand I respect Srilanka as a nation and friend country and I have some friends from Srilanka as well. So it will be a tough game , but I wish if Pakistan not wins, Srilanka must take the title. The title must not go to the other 2 teams:-)

AHMADHASAN
on October 3, 2012, 14:37 GMT

Go Green Bleed Green. Yes Pakistan We Are With You Go Get The Trophy

Inaz
on October 3, 2012, 14:37 GMT

As a Srilankan I badly want Srilanka to win this tournament, but said that I don't mind pakistan win as long as they go onto win the title. Pakistan has been my 2nd favourite after Srilanka. There are lots pakistan fans in Srilanka.

fizzy09
on October 3, 2012, 14:37 GMT

As a Pakistani i surely want Pakistan to win ....but we wish Srilanka all the best as we love Srilanka too:)..may the best team win

Inaz
on October 3, 2012, 14:37 GMT

As a Srilankan I badly want Srilanka to win this tournament, but said that I don't mind pakistan win as long as they go onto win the title. Pakistan has been my 2nd favourite after Srilanka. There are lots pakistan fans in Srilanka.

SimplyHK
on October 3, 2012, 14:36 GMT

India lost against Aussie cost them alot actually that flush was very flat I mean no fight whatsoever. I guess that's the only reason India is out of this T20. I love to see both Asians in the final :( never the less wish u both SL Pak best of luck. Hope the most exciting cricketing match tomorrow..........Asian

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 14:35 GMT

Being Pakistani, I support Pak to win. But I do have a soft corner for SL. I will support SL to win the tournament if they beat us tomorrow. To my Sri lankan friends, best of luck guys. You have been a fantastic team and great people.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 14:33 GMT

Fact of the matter is, only quality teams made it to the semis, with the exception of SA. It'll be a good contest, but I'm putting my money on Pak. Fluke or not, they showed the difference between average spin bowling and class spin bowling. And they played with heart. Didn't roll over and die. Fought for their place.

yorkslanka
on October 3, 2012, 14:32 GMT

The very best of luck to Sri Lanka tomorrow. Obviously I want us to win . however , if we do lose, then all the best to Pakistan to win the cup...All we can ask from our players is that you continue to try your hardest and continue to make us proud...

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 14:30 GMT

pak win 100% , pak bowling attach is superb in this tournament, pakistan have 4 all rounder which make big difference between two team.

noplay
on October 3, 2012, 14:28 GMT

Well, let's see. SL beat Zimbabwe, England, NZ and WI and lost to SA. Pak beat NZ, Bangladesh, OZ and SA and lost to India. Paks arrival in the semis seemed a little more difficult, but it should be a good match

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 14:28 GMT

Wow, I see so many negative comments from haters but all I would like to say is that in this huge continent of great Asia only the Team Pakistan and Team Sri Lanka go hand in hand, I am not just saying this; I actually have the experience by living in United States of America where my best buddies are no one other than loving Sri Lankans who always cheered for us :) Therefore I will not have any regrets about the result of this semi final, may the best team win. Go Greens and Go Lions :)

Prabh_Hundal
on October 3, 2012, 14:28 GMT

so that srilanka looks like new chokers if they are unable to win this world cup.

Harding119
on October 3, 2012, 14:27 GMT

It all will boil down to how the Sri Lakans cope with the Pakistani's varied attack. I cannot see the spinners bowl over 10 overs. I can see Umar Gull being at it again. As for Sri Lanka, Malinga will pose the biggest threat to Pakistan with his low full toss,bouncers and yorkers. If Akhila the kid plays, I think he will do well with his skiddy spinners. Having watched him against England, I was surprised at his accuracy. Afridi has always performed well against SL. Dilshan, is the one to watch and watch out for Perera. These are my dark horses.

ilyas_US
on October 3, 2012, 14:27 GMT

One will have to lose but their should be good competition and good cricket. Only one team can win and I wish it should be Pakistan. Good luck to both teams :P

LoveLanka
on October 3, 2012, 14:26 GMT

Come on Mahela... please do it this time.. Pak will give enough pressure. specially if SL has TO bat second... wont be easy.. but all the lankans are waiting for something special this time. we all believe our team can do it.. no need to panic at any moment of the game as it was throughout this tournament. two more shots... Gud Luck to SL LIONS............. JAYA VEVA.......

Solid_Snake
on October 3, 2012, 14:26 GMT

May the best team win..I would not get upset even if Pak lose here.
My prediction is that in Aus vs WI match,WI would throw all of their spinners onto Aussies.Just like what Pak did yesterday.So that match would be very interesting.
As far as this match is concerned,well Pak record against SL is really good.Still i am confused because of awesome recent SL performances.
Best of luck both of Pak and SL :)

iqbaladnan
on October 3, 2012, 14:26 GMT

I do not mind if SL wins but as a Pakistani I would like Pakistan to win. Best of Luck with both teams.

V wer not counting on Pakistan or aus or SA to remove any1....v wudav welcomed any opponent...Sri Lanka hasnt feard defeat before...there is no reason we shud fear it now...by any country!!we love the game,the people and the legends who play this game...!lets hope for a great match tom...Revenge is something in our mind..but in a sporty way!!may the better team lift the cup!!

crzcric
on October 3, 2012, 14:24 GMT

dear indian fans.plz don't ruin this post with ifs,the post is about PAK vs SL match. india already out of the tournament.who ever play better on the day will win. all the best for both teams.

zeeshan_sloger
on October 3, 2012, 14:24 GMT

i always support Sl after Pakistan..now both teams are playing against each other in semi's,best of luck to both teams.hoping a good match ahead,but i wish pak or sl won this cup instead of west indes or austrailia........

SureshBravo
on October 3, 2012, 14:23 GMT

Whoever lose we will booze. What a time gng to have ?

Nmiduna
on October 3, 2012, 14:23 GMT

all the best Sril Lanka!..cup or not, ur fans will still love u!..but honestly they'll treasure the victory after years of starving...go lions..:D

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 14:21 GMT

I am a Pakistani fan. But I equally love both teams. Best of Luck to both teams. Sri Lanka should be careful of Pakistan"s world class Spin attack. And Pakistan should treat Kumar Sangakara very very carefully. Really thanks a lot Jimi01. We, Pakistan, always welcomes Sri Lanka. We also love Sri Lanka and kind Sri Lankan people.

Eat_Sleep_Play_Cricket
on October 3, 2012, 14:20 GMT

Now only quality team left in the competition to lift the cup is Lanka unless they choke as they always do, after 1996 world cup. I have lots of respect for Lanka team (though some time i trash talk against them). I still remember cheering Ranatunga's team in 1996 world cup though my family / friends were cheering for Australia and this time too my money is on Lanka. I admire the way Pak fights, i love the way Watson and gayle bat but these teams are too one dimensional. Lanka with little bit of luck can do it this time. Go Lions! - From an Indian Fan!

Rolling_in_The_Deep
on October 3, 2012, 14:20 GMT

Its a Brotherly Clash.. If SL win Against Pak, wish them all the best for the finals..

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 14:20 GMT

good luck to both the teams!!! love u both....no matter whosoever wins the game, friendship between two should win in the end...alll the very best!!!!! from pakistani fan

Haaris-
on October 3, 2012, 14:19 GMT

To my Sri Lankan friends: Besides Pakistan, Sri Lanka is my second favorite team. I would love for Pakistan to win tomorrow, but would not be upset if Sri Lanka ends up winning it. And if Sri Lank does go through to the Final, I wish them the very best and hope they lift the trophy. Best of luck to both teams and hope it is a good game.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 14:19 GMT

Sri Lanka will struggle in Premadasa because their poor record and Pakistan have an advantage having played all their Super Eight Games in Colombo Premadasa. Best of luck Team Pakistan

Donga-The-Bonga
on October 3, 2012, 14:18 GMT

@ Jimi01 - Well said Sir! You are absolutely right and I too would like to whole-heatedly say - THANK YOU to all of Pakistan!

AshrafGul_FU
on October 3, 2012, 14:18 GMT

@ Kirla Niranjan - SL don't see matches against Pak as "revenge". They like all teams except India.

AshrafGul_FU
on October 3, 2012, 14:16 GMT

I can bet The Final would be Sri Lanka vs West Indies. Anyone ? And SL will win !

ranilranathunga
on October 3, 2012, 14:16 GMT

Pakistan will always be our brothers...SL fan

AshrafGul_FU
on October 3, 2012, 14:15 GMT

@ cricinfo - Be Ready to BLOCK the comments section as soon as possible (like u did last night) after tomorrow's match-result. Whichever team loses, you will get loads of comments. Indian fans will return the favour. Every action has equal and opposite reaction. Please Publish this comment too :) !

amilag
on October 3, 2012, 14:15 GMT

This is Lion's Den. No body will survive. SL is the well deserved team to win the WT20. They are such a talented,unorthodox and balanced side. Go SL go..

fareeduetian
on October 3, 2012, 14:15 GMT

InshALLAH pak will win :)

Sam_ku
on October 3, 2012, 14:15 GMT

Only Luck can defeat Srilanka bcoz they played extremely well through out the tournament & deserve the T20 trophy . . Bt as a Pakistani i will be more pleased if Pakistan won that one . . ;)

Extraz
on October 3, 2012, 14:14 GMT

Well now we r against the Lankans so as a pakistani i'll be cheering for both the teams,looking forward to see a good tight match.GO PAK GO LANKANS...

pakcricketgirl
on October 3, 2012, 14:14 GMT

GO PAKISTAN!!! "Cornered tigers" beat lions any day! :p:D

SKKhan
on October 3, 2012, 14:14 GMT

Indian fans please stop complaining about your team being out, you fully knew what was needed to be done before the start of the game against SA but couldn't do it, as a result your team is out. Back to the tomorrow's semi, good luck to both SL and Pak, if Pak doesn't win I hope that SL wins the trophy.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 14:12 GMT

@kunalx

Must be hurting pretty bad NO? very funny on the fluke part, makes me wonder how many SEMIs and FINALs did INDIA play after their 2007 win?
i guess this year they broke their Super8 Jinx by defeating Pakistan and SouthAfrica
And about the brother stuff, well Pak and Srilanka share more than just good cricketing ties.
May the deserving team win.

bestofluckindia
on October 3, 2012, 14:09 GMT

Doesnt matter who wins tomorrow... The cup is gonna go to Carribean... They deserve more.... Lankans are chokers same like SAF... They loose steam in the Knock-out stage...

Aura123
on October 3, 2012, 14:09 GMT

Seems like I have two fav teams, like Lankan and love Pak. As Pakistani I want Pakistan to win but do not want Sri Lanka to lose :-) May the best team WIN

SKKhan
on October 3, 2012, 14:08 GMT

@Kunalx so Fluke Pak, a team that is in every semi final of WC-T20 and barring a once in a lifetime Hussey masterstroke would have been a finalist of every WC-T20 is a fluke, may be you should be better off saying India 2007 final win was a fluke as they never went to WC-T20 semis finals since then and have a pathetic 2-7 record in Super 8s.

gemind
on October 3, 2012, 14:08 GMT

Two of the Best T20 teams meeting for a semi final match is surely the greatest story of the game. although Pakistan is having a heavy weight Spin Attack of the world, but Sri lankan's top order consists of The Best Players of the Spin, so it would be really a big challenge for Pakistani spinners to do their best and Pakistan SIMPLY CAN NOT rely on its spinner only if they have to live in the match ... but I do believe that this one is going to be one of the Best match in the history of T20 with both team giving a great game to watch .... No wonder it might go to the super over ... good luck to Both Teams ....

Saad.Navaid
on October 3, 2012, 14:08 GMT

I just wish for a hard fought match... a Pakistani victory will be a gr8 gift frm Allah... but if we fight hard and then loose to Sri Lanka (Allah forbid :)) then i wont be much disappointed... best of Luck to both the teams... i just hope that the winner of this match (hopefully Pakistan...)goes on to win the world title... (AMEEN)

click_AAA
on October 3, 2012, 14:07 GMT

no way there is no chance for srilanka bcoz of many reasons

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 14:07 GMT

Both the teams are equal but one big difference is captaincy , that Pakistan captaincy is very low as compare to Sri-lanka , Who ever win , i don't care but hope we will have a good match .

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 14:07 GMT

All the best to both teams.. hoping for a cracker of a nail bitter of a tense game....

Sri Lanka seem to be everybody's "second" team (Lankans excepted, of course) and they always seem to punch above their weight. I wish them success.

MWilde
on October 3, 2012, 14:04 GMT

Its irony that Srilanka (Group 1 topper) were comprehensively beaten by S.Africa(Group 2 Bottom placed team) in group stage & West Indies qualified inspite of winning just 2 out of its 5 Matches.Being an Australian , I'm not a fan of S.Africa or India but pretty sure that both teams will beat Srilanka anywhere in the world in a bilateral series of 5 T20I matches by atleast 4-1.

smjr
on October 3, 2012, 14:04 GMT

I have defined below each team characteristics in single sentence with regard to ICC tournaments: (i) Australia--- Mentally strong but take pressure in high profile match (ii) India--- Highly Focus & consistent but lack killer instinct (iii) South Africa --- Chokers in knockout matches but lot of skills and talent(iv) Pakistan--- The most un-predictable team but rely on individual brilliance (v) England--- Stereo typed conservative planning but very disciplined (vi) Sri Lanka--- Lot of talent and skill but lack big/title match temperament (vii) W.I--- bits and pieces team, lack confidence but individually good (viii) N.Z--- Lack hunger to win but bring drama and suspense

click_AAA
on October 3, 2012, 14:02 GMT

its all gambling now a days. no body knows what happen coz its not a real cricket since many years ,i am pakistani but the fact is that this cup belongs to australia its a pre decided . so no need to worry abt these results just enjoy ur time to watch cricket now a days .

AshrafGul_FU
on October 3, 2012, 14:02 GMT

Pakistan seriously have no chance against SL. Lets talk about Pak's strength - Basically, gone r those days when Pak used to have World Class FAST bowlers, now their fast bowlers are as good as India's. Ajmal is their spearhead who gets support from Hafeez, Afridi, Raza and sometimes even frm Shoaib Malik too. All spinners ! Wow. Cake Walk for SL batsmen as they are very good players of spin bowling. Who left ? Gul ? U kidding me ? He has nwdays become a club level bowler who is in the playing XI for his batting skills. With Malinga coming back in form, I wouldn't be surprised if Pak get bowled below 100. And Kulsekara is a smart guy, who made fool of even Gayle. And then Matthews is always there to give crucial brkthroughs to SL. Only problem with SL is Ajantha Mendis. He can perform only in SLPL or against minnows. SL should drop him bring in a Seamer. Spin dept can be handled well by Jeevan and Danajaya. Best of SL ! U deserve to win. Mark my words - SL will win this year's trophy.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 13:59 GMT

'Sri Lanka have now reached their fifth semi-final in six World Cups'
Can someone explain this?

Mohammad.Imran.Hyder
on October 3, 2012, 13:59 GMT

all the respect and love for srilankans for setting a brilliant show thourhgout the tournament. However, at scenarios like that, the only team which holds the honor of predictably unpredictable wins...... so we have already known the winner.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 13:58 GMT

I think Pakistan is going is to be toughest encounter in these latter stages of the competition. Once they get passed Pakistan , Aus & WI both have their weakness to be exploited. When I say weaknesses, I meant in the context SL's composition. Pakistan is the only side among those final fours which have player well against the likes of Mendi & the new kid have yet to be tested against Pakistani batting which normally enjoy playing against spin.

Qureshi1
on October 3, 2012, 13:56 GMT

surly people would love to see new champion and truly West Indies and Sri Lanka deserve to be in the finals.. wish all the luck for sri Lanka ...

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 13:54 GMT

I would love to see Lankans thrashing Pakistanis ! Go Srilanka Go :)Take ur revenge
of 2010 WCT20 Final ...

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 13:53 GMT

Wish u all the very best 4 the Lionzz n Semi Final....Hope we can see a good game tomrrw...!!!

JayPmorgan
on October 3, 2012, 13:52 GMT

Cards on the table, I am a Pakistan fan and am hopeful that Pak will beat SL and reach the final. Having said that, I do have a soft spot for Sri Lanka, as they always play a very watchable brand of cricket and get on with the game with a minimum of fuss and showmanship. As stated in the article, they always seem to be there or there abouts when it matters in the big tournaments. For a country of 20 mill people they punch well above there weight, so hats off to them and if they do beat us in the semis, I hope they go on and win the trophy.

AshrafGul_FU
on October 3, 2012, 13:51 GMT

Yes, why not. Their biggest obstacle India have already been knocked out. Mahela's men would surely be relieved that SA, Aus and Pak's combined efforts helped put India out of the tournament. And as we all know SL are always a tough opponent to beat in their own backyard and with some luck going their way ( the way they got placed in easier groups), I put my money on SL. Go SL Go ! You deserve it.

geak4u
on October 3, 2012, 13:48 GMT

srilnka will win...Sri Lanka began their campaign on the fastest track of the tournament in Hambantota, and adjusted quickly to a slightly less bouncy track in Pallekele.

ZAB2121
on October 3, 2012, 13:47 GMT

SriLankans need to watch out just 18 overs of Pak spin ;)

kunalx
on October 3, 2012, 13:47 GMT

It will be over confident SL vs Fluke PAK. Good contest. SL fans cheered for PAK in last two games so that India doesn't qualify. Now they will taste defeat in hand of their own so called "Brother" pakistan. Tit for Tat

Donga-The-Bonga
on October 3, 2012, 13:46 GMT

Its not going to be easy, specially as the expectations are so high playing at home. Just go with the flow and make us proud!

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 13:46 GMT

It's unimaginable we have been at so many worldcup finals and semifinals. We are the allblacks of the cricketing world!!

Jimi01
on October 3, 2012, 13:44 GMT

There have been so many posts from Pak people wishing Sl the best. On behalf of Sl we want to thank you, you're all good people. Hope tomorrows match would be a good one, and hope both teams put up a fight.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 13:42 GMT

Sri Lanka always bottle up in the key stage, they play well when the prize is far away. In fact a one sided affair is possible, hopefully they will fight well against a strong pakistan bowling side. Win and put in pakistan is their only hope.

princeofjoy
on October 3, 2012, 13:39 GMT

I love Lankan lions lots but my first choice always be pakistan but I'll never be sad if Lankan Lions win.All the best both team we need best of best cricket....i'm so exicted ......wow............

No featured comments at the moment.

princeofjoy
on October 3, 2012, 13:39 GMT

I love Lankan lions lots but my first choice always be pakistan but I'll never be sad if Lankan Lions win.All the best both team we need best of best cricket....i'm so exicted ......wow............

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 13:42 GMT

Sri Lanka always bottle up in the key stage, they play well when the prize is far away. In fact a one sided affair is possible, hopefully they will fight well against a strong pakistan bowling side. Win and put in pakistan is their only hope.

Jimi01
on October 3, 2012, 13:44 GMT

There have been so many posts from Pak people wishing Sl the best. On behalf of Sl we want to thank you, you're all good people. Hope tomorrows match would be a good one, and hope both teams put up a fight.

dummy4fb
on October 3, 2012, 13:46 GMT

It's unimaginable we have been at so many worldcup finals and semifinals. We are the allblacks of the cricketing world!!

Donga-The-Bonga
on October 3, 2012, 13:46 GMT

Its not going to be easy, specially as the expectations are so high playing at home. Just go with the flow and make us proud!

kunalx
on October 3, 2012, 13:47 GMT

It will be over confident SL vs Fluke PAK. Good contest. SL fans cheered for PAK in last two games so that India doesn't qualify. Now they will taste defeat in hand of their own so called "Brother" pakistan. Tit for Tat

ZAB2121
on October 3, 2012, 13:47 GMT

SriLankans need to watch out just 18 overs of Pak spin ;)

geak4u
on October 3, 2012, 13:48 GMT

srilnka will win...Sri Lanka began their campaign on the fastest track of the tournament in Hambantota, and adjusted quickly to a slightly less bouncy track in Pallekele.

AshrafGul_FU
on October 3, 2012, 13:51 GMT

Yes, why not. Their biggest obstacle India have already been knocked out. Mahela's men would surely be relieved that SA, Aus and Pak's combined efforts helped put India out of the tournament. And as we all know SL are always a tough opponent to beat in their own backyard and with some luck going their way ( the way they got placed in easier groups), I put my money on SL. Go SL Go ! You deserve it.

JayPmorgan
on October 3, 2012, 13:52 GMT

Cards on the table, I am a Pakistan fan and am hopeful that Pak will beat SL and reach the final. Having said that, I do have a soft spot for Sri Lanka, as they always play a very watchable brand of cricket and get on with the game with a minimum of fuss and showmanship. As stated in the article, they always seem to be there or there abouts when it matters in the big tournaments. For a country of 20 mill people they punch well above there weight, so hats off to them and if they do beat us in the semis, I hope they go on and win the trophy.